When They Wander: Compassionate Tips for Caring for Someone with Alzheimer's
By Haven of Grace Residence
One of the most common—and often most frightening—behaviors for families caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is wandering. Your loved one may leave a room, walk out the door, or try to go "home"—even if they’ve lived in the same house for decades. This behavior isn’t defiance. It’s confusion, unmet needs, or simply the brain searching for familiarity.
At Haven of Grace Residence, we work with wandering every day, and we want to share practical, compassionate strategies for families who may be experiencing this for the first time.
Use Visual Cues Like a Stop Sign
Believe it or not, placing a full-size red stop sign on a door can be incredibly effective. The color red and the shape are universally understood, even in advanced dementia. It acts as a gentle deterrent—a moment of pause in a confusing world.
Camouflage Doors
Sometimes, doors themselves are triggers. Try covering exits with curtains, or place murals, bookshelves, or neutral-colored coverings on doors to make them blend in. If the door doesn’t stand out, it often doesn’t invite wandering.
Establish Daily Routines
Wandering often stems from restlessness or uncertainty. Consistent routines provide structure and calm. Meals, walks, rest, and meaningful activities at predictable times help reduce anxiety and the urge to roam.
Encourage Safe Movement
Your loved one may have the need to walk, not to leave. Schedule daily walks indoors or outdoors, offer light movement activities, or let them help with simple tasks like folding laundry. Movement with purpose reduces unstructured wandering.
Install Safety Locks (Out of Line of Sight)
Consider placing door locks higher or lower than eye level—they’re often missed by someone with dementia. Alarms or door chimes can also help alert caregivers when a door is opened.
Use ID Bracelets or GPS Trackers
If wandering is persistent, ID bracelets with name and contact info or discreet GPS devices can offer peace of mind. It’s about safety, not surveillance.
Meet the Need Behind the Wandering
Sometimes the behavior is trying to say, "I'm bored," "I'm hungry," or "I don't feel well." Gentle conversation, a snack, or a familiar song can often soothe the restlessness.
Reduce Nighttime Confusion
Wandering at night is common. Try soft nightlights, keep hallways clear, and avoid stimulants like caffeine before bed. A predictable bedtime routine helps signal it’s time to rest.
You Are Not Alone
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can feel overwhelming—especially when behaviors like wandering begin. But with the right tools, support, and perspective, you can create a safer, more peaceful space for both of you.
At Haven of Grace Residence, we’re here to walk alongside families with knowledge, grace, and care.
Because every step—even the unexpected ones—deserves to be met with love.