According to the Administration on Aging, three in five people with dementia will wander. Experts on cognitive disorders tell us that the person often leaves with a goal or destination in mind, but they may forget directions, encounter an obstacle in their planned route, or realize the place they’re trying to reach is imaginary or inaccessible. Unfortunately, not only is wandering often terrifying for a senior with dementia, it can be physically dangerous. It’s estimated that about half of seniors who wander will suffer a fall, injury, fracture, or some type of elemental exposure.
Reducing dementia wandering at night
While wandering can occur at any time, day or night, dementia wandering at night is a common problem. Researchers suggest there are several triggers:
- Fatigue
- Low light
- Internal imbalance
- Winter
- Infection (particularly UTIs)
There are several steps you can take to reduce the likelihood and hazards of nighttime wandering:
Create a safe environment
Installing night lights and posting arrows or signs around the home can help your loved one remain oriented, and a clear path to the bathroom can help prevent falls.
Regulate sleep
Try to limit daytime naps and reduce fluid intake in the hours before bedtime, which will help reduce or eliminate bathroom trips during the night.
Take preventive measures
Devices like bed alarms can alert a family caregiver if a senior gets up during the night. Consider installing latches and locks to prevent wandering, but be sure they have access to a restroom, water, and a snack.
Use tracking technology
One of the most effective ways to reduce caregiver stress related to dementia wandering is through GPS devices and other tracking systems. Many types of GPS tracking devices are available, including watches, in-shoe tracking, and small, budget-friendly devices that attach to clothing.
Talk to your loved one’s doctor
If behavioral approaches aren’t helpful, doctors can prescribe sleep aids that will work safely in conjunction with other medications a senior takes. Many over-the-counter sleep medicines can increase cognitive issues, which is why it’s best to talk to a physician before giving your aging relative a sleep aid.
Caring for a senior with dementia is a true labor of love, but it’s also challenging and stressful. Assisting Hands Home Care’s highly trained caregivers to keep seniors with dementia safe and comfortable right where they want to be – at home. Whether you need us a couple of hours a day or around the clock, we’ll be there to help maintain your loved one’s dignity, self-esteem, and independence.
Contact us today to learn more about Assisting Hands Home Care. We look forward to serving your family.
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