Wandering is a common occurrence in dementia and can be a source of stress and anxiety for the family. It’s also a potential safety risk and requires caregivers to take extra precautions, such as implementing a safe return program and ensuring that they have an accessible medical ID.Understanding the Reasons for WanderingA number of factors may contribute to dementia wandering, including confusion, frustration, fear and anxiety.  Dementia Devices Personality can also play a role. For example, if a person is feeling sad or angry, they may become frustrated and disoriented in their surroundings.Plan Your DayCaregivers can help reduce the chances of wandering by creating a daily routine for their loved one that includes similar activities at different times of the day. For instance, if a loved one has an afternoon habit of wandering, they could go to the local park for some physical activity or play games.Label and RemindA simple way to keep your loved one safe is by labelling their furniture, clothing and rooms. This will help them remember where they are in the house, and you can remind them of this when they are in unfamiliar settings.Avoid New EnvironmentsThe brain changes that occur in dementia can make a person feel unsure or confused about their surroundings. This can trigger wandering in a variety of ways, such as seeking familiar locations or trying to find their way home.Educate families on the symptoms of dementia wandering and identify potentially dangerous areas in their neighborhood, such as bodies of water, open stairwells, dense foliage, tunnels and bus stops.  tracker for dementia patients Then, start search-and-rescue efforts immediately. Many individuals who wander are found within 1.5 miles of their last known location, so start searching early to maximize the chance of recovery. dementia and wandering