At Silver Sitters, we understand the challenges that come with Alzheimer’s care for a loved one. Some popular
Creating a comforting and stimulating home environment and engaging activities for senior care in Palm Beach County
The family members and caregivers often feel difficulty in handling the seniors with dementia in Palm Beach County
One of life’s toughest and most heartbreaking challenges is to watch seniors move as their Alzheimer’s disease
Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s often deal with sundowning, especially seniors who have mid and late-stage
Wandering is a common behavior among senior dementia patients, often leading to a significant amount of worry and stress for their family members and caregivers. In Palm Beach County, understanding the reasons behind this behavior and learning effective strategies to manage it can greatly enhance the quality of life for both the seniors with dementia and their caregivers while giving them Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Wandering is a common phenomenon in senior dementia patients. The reasons why seniors with dementia wander are:
The seniors’ wandering is not regarded as harmful as long as it is happening in a secure environment. Unfortunately, it can take a serious turn if the seniors go about wandering in forests, unfamiliar areas, or dangerous roadways.
Wandering can occur at any stage of dementia patients but is especially common as the disease progresses. It can happen at any time of day or night but is often worse in the late afternoon or early evening, a phenomenon known as “sundowning.”
To manage wandering behavior, caregivers should first understand that it is a means of communication. It’s crucial to maintain a safe environment that allows the person with dementia to explore without getting hurt. Here are some tips to prevent wandering among seniors.
Make sure your home is secure and consider installing safety devices such as door alarms. Remove tripping hazards and make sure the person with dementia wears comfortable, sturdy shoes.
Regular physical activity can reduce restlessness and agitation, common triggers for wandering.
Visual cues can help orient dementia patients. For example, place photographs of familiar people or places around the house.
If the person with dementia feels lost, scared, or confused, reassure them. They may need to be comforted and reassured that they are safe and not alone.
If wandering becomes a significant concern, seek advice from a healthcare professional or a local support group. In Palm Beach County, organizations like Silver Sitters can provide valuable resources and support.
Remember, every senior with dementia is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Consequently, you need to be Patient, understanding, and creative to manage the wandering behavior of the seniors in Palm Beach County.
Summit Hills. “Why Do People with Dementia Wander”?, Summit Hills, July 2023, https://summit-hills.com/blog/why-do-people-with-dementia-wander/
Submit a review and let us know what
you think about our services.
Call us today to schedule a care assessment and speak
with your local Silver Sitters Care Manager
Join a team who makes a difference in the lives
of our beloved Seniors
Hit enter to search or ESC to close