Understanding 'Wandering' in Dementia and How to Reduce the Risks

One of the most distressing and dangerous symptoms of dementia is wandering - when a person moves about unpredictably, sometimes leaving home and becoming lost or disoriented.

For families, wandering can feel terrifying. A loved one might walk out the door in a moment of confusion and vanish into unfamiliar surroundings, unsure of who they are, where they were going, or how to get back.

But while wandering is a real risk, it’s also one that can be managed with awareness, preparation, and the right support tools.

Here’s what you need to know to understand why wandering happens - and how to help keep your loved one safe without restricting their freedom.

What Is Wandering in Dementia?

Wandering refers to unplanned or confused movement, often with no clear goal.
It can involve:

Leaving the home unsupervised
Pacing or moving aimlessly
Getting lost in familiar places
Becoming confused in public or outdoor spaces

Wandering often occurs even in early or moderate stages of dementia and can happen during the day or night.

Why Does Wandering Happen?

People with dementia may wander for a range of reasons, including:

Confusion about time or place: They may believe they need to go to work, school, or an old home.
Stress or anxiety: Overstimulation or changes in routine can trigger restlessness.
Looking for something familiar: They may be searching for a person, place, or sense of purpose.
Physical discomfort: Pain, hunger, or the need to use the toilet can lead to movement.
Boredom or lack of stimulation: Idle time can prompt roaming.
Establishing a sense of control: Wandering can sometimes be a coping mechanism.

Is Wandering Dangerous?

Yes - wandering can lead to serious risks:

Getting lost or injured outdoors
Exposure to weather or dangerous terrain
Walking into traffic or unfamiliar buildings
Becoming frightened, confused, or agitated
Dehydration or exhaustion, especially if lost for a long time

Even if your loved one has not wandered before, it’s important to be proactive - more than 60% of people living with dementia will wander at some point, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Warning Signs That Wandering May Happen

Watch for these early clues that your loved one may be at risk:

Returning from walks or outings later than expected
Talking about going “home” (even if already home)
Getting confused about past and present responsibilities (e.g., “I need to catch the bus to work”)
Pacing, restlessness, or repetitive movements
Difficulty navigating familiar routes
Trying to open doors or leave the house unexpectedly
Becoming anxious in crowded or unfamiliar places

Recognizing these signs can help families act before a wandering incident occurs.

How to Reduce the Risk of Wandering

You can’t stop the impulse to wander - but you can reduce the risks and keep your loved one safe.

🟢 1. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment

Install secure locks (above or below eye level)
Use motion sensors or door chimes to alert when doors open
Place stop signs or visual cues on doors to discourage exit
Keep car keys out of sight if driving is no longer safe
Remove clutter to prevent falls or disorientation indoors

🟢 2. Establish Daily Routines

Predictable structure helps reduce anxiety and restlessness.
Try to keep:

Mealtimes and bedtime consistent
Activities varied but familiar
Downtime structured with calm, engaging tasks

Include gentle physical activity (like walks or stretches) to reduce agitation and promote relaxation.

🟢 3. Keep the Brain Engaged

Mental stimulation helps reduce boredom-driven wandering.

Suggestions include:

Music, puzzles, or crafts
Looking at old photos together
Sorting or matching tasks
Watering plants or folding towels

🟢 4. Use Technology Thoughtfully

Tools like Elli Cares Safe Zones offer real peace of mind without restricting freedom.

With Safe Zones, families can:

Be alerted if a loved one exits a predefined area
Quickly view their location and respond if needed
Create zones around home, parks, or care centers
Maintain safety while supporting independence

👉 Internal link: How Safe Zones Help Seniors Stay Independent

🟢 5. Prepare an Emergency Plan

If wandering does occur, you’ll want to act fast.

Prepare by:

Keeping a recent photo and medical details on hand
Notifying trusted neighbors or local community members
Using a medical ID bracelet with emergency contact details
Informing local police or community watch programs

Time matters - most people are found within a 1.5-mile radius, but the risk of harm increases if they’re not found within 24 hours.

Wandering is a frightening reality for many families living with dementia - but it’s not inevitable, and it’s not unmanageable.

By understanding why it happens and putting proactive strategies in place, you can reduce risk without stripping away independence or dignity.

At Elli Cares, we’re committed to helping families care with confidence - supporting both safety and quality of life through practical tools like Safe Zones, reminders, and real-time updates.

Because every step toward safety is a step toward peace of mind.