Wandering can be both puzzling and stressful for carers and it is often impossible for the person with dementia to explain why they are doing it. You may need to take into account what you think their reasons for wandering may be and other considerations such as whether they live in a hazardous environment with heavy traffic or in a quiet, relatively safe neighbourhood.

You may decide, as many carers do, that some degree of risk is acceptable to allow the person some freedom. After all, people should be encouraged to remain independent for as long as they can. And it is worth remembering that walking is an extremely good way of keeping fit and can help the person to sleep better at night. The person may also enjoy being out and about or find that being at home for much of the day is too restrictive.

If the person with dementia attends a day centre or goes into respite, residential or nursing care, ask staff about their policy on wandering so that you are clear about the situation beforehand.

Why people wander
Some of the reasons people wander and some ways to cope, are listed below:

Feeling lost
If the person has recently moved home or is attending a new day centre, for example, they may wander because they feel uncertain in a new environment. They may therefore, need extra help in finding their way around. This type of wandering may cease once they become used to their new surroundings.
However, as dementia progresses, the person may also lose the ability to recognise a familiar environment. They may need more reminders of where they are or might need to be accompanied if there is a possibility of getting lost.

Loss of memory
Wandering may take place due to loss of short-term memory. The person may sometimes set off to go shopping or visit a friend and then forget where they are going. Or they may forget you have told them you are going out and set off in search of you. It is possible they may become distressed and need reassurance. A note with written instructions as to where they are going or where you are may help in the earlier stages.

Continuing a habit
People who have been used to walking long distances for pleasure or because of their job may simply be continuing a habit. Wherever possible, try to give
them the opportunity to continue.

Boredom
Sometimes people wander because they are bored. They may need encouragement to take part in activities that
they can still enjoy at home or at a local day centre.

Energy
Wandering may also indicate that the person needs more regular exercise. If you are unwilling for them to go out alone and are unable to accompany them, you might ask a relative or friend to do so. You might also encourage them to exercise with you to music or find them another form of physical activity.

For more information or support call the Alzheimer National Helpline 1800 341 341