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How to prevent those with memory loss from wandering off

January 4, 2018 By Take My Hand

Wandering is a not-uncommon feature of memory loss and dementia. When our loved ones get confused or disoriented, when they fail to recognize where they are, or when they forget what they’re doing, they might start to wander in search of something they do recognize or remember.

Stats show that six in 10 people with dementia are prone to wandering.

The good news is that it’s a well-known phenomenon, and there are strategies that we can employ to keep our loved ones as safe as possible. Here are some ideas:

Maintain routine. An established routine of certain activities at certain times — especially during those times your loved one is most prone to wander, such as in the evenings — can go a long way toward preventing spontaneous exits.

Discourage exit. Wandering isn’t a well-planned activity, and thus placing a few cognitive barriers can reduce the likelihood of wandering. For example, locks on exterior doors should be placed out of sight. Car keys, too, should be kept somewhere safe, not on the kitchen counter where a loved one might spot them and leave during a moment of confusion. The Alzheimer’s Association maintains a helpful home-safety checklist full of great advice.

Use technology. Devices are available that can help to track your loved ones if they leave the house. The local Alzheimer Society of Washington, for example, has a program called Project Lifesaver through which it hands out free bracelets that can be worn by wanderers. The bracelets use radio frequency to keep tabs on a person’s location. The bracelets are free, but there’s a $15 monthly fee for the batteries and changing. Other tech options also are available, and some combination of various ideas might be best for you.

Rely on others. Wandering can be especially dangerous at night, when the rest of the house is asleep. That’s one reason why Take My Hand At-Home Care offers overnight and even 24-hour shifts, so loved ones can sleep while our caregiver companions watch the home and ensure everyone is kept as safe, healthy and happy as possible. We’re a locally owned and operated eldercare provider seeking to help the people of Whatcom County live their best lives.

Remember that wandering can be common among loved ones with dementia, but with planning and support from those around you, it’s manageable. For additional guidance and support, feel free to contact Take My Hand At-Home Care.

 

Filed Under: Caregiving, Long-term care, Memory loss, Resources for caregivers Tagged With: Aging-In-Place, alzheimer’s care, assisted living near Bellingham, at-home care, at-home hospice care, Bellingham caregiver, caregiver for older adults, Everson caregivers, Ferndale at home caregiving, help for memory loss, help with wandering, home health for seniors, living safely at home, Lynden Caregivers, Lynden eldercare, overnight caregiving, respite for family caregivers, Sumas caregiving, temporary respite for caregivers, Whatcom County Eldercare

Prevent social isolation with these three tips

December 2, 2015 By Take My Hand

Feelings of social isolation and loneliness can be a problem at any age, but those feelings can occur more often as people grow older.

The National Council on Aging estimates that one in six seniors face the risks of
feeling isolation and its repercussions, and that older woman
are at higher risk, representing over 60 percent of isolated older adults.

Jodi and Agnes August 2015For older adults the onset of loneliness can happen gradually, sometimes preceded by specific life events like retirement, the loss of a loved one, a change in driving privileges, or family members moving away. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Aging in place, Caregiving, Elder loneliness, Resources for caregivers Tagged With: Aging-In-Place, Blaine caregivers, Caregiver Burnout, Everson caregivers, Lynden Caregivers, resources for caregivers, social isolation in senior citizens, Whatcom County Eldercare

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ABOUT US

Sue Sorensen became involved with Whatcom County eldercare and aging-in-place services in 2009. She launched Take My Hand At-Home Care in January 2012 … Read More...

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Recent Posts

  • How to spot cognitive decline in a loved one
  • How to practice thankfulness — and how it can improve your life
  • Does your elderly loved one need a healthcare advocate?
  • ADUs can be part of cost-effective option for eldercare
  • Should I take my parent out of assisted living during COVID-19?

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Phone: 360-543-5777
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