Wandering occurs when a person with dementia becomes lost, usually forgetting where they are, where they are going, and where they came from. People who are wandering are often confused and unable to recognize familiar places.

Wandering can be dangerous and life-threatening because getting lost outdoors can expose individuals to dangerous weather conditions and dangerous situations.

Wandering can occur:

• On foot, by car or by public transportation.
• Day or night.
• At any stage of dementia
• 6/10 people with dementia will wander at least once.

How to Reduce the Risk of Wandering

• Identifying the time of day at which they are most likely to wander and plan activities for this time.
• Redirect attention if they express a desire to leave.
• Install warning bells on doors.
• Add locks that are out of sight.
• Store items that may encourage leaving (keys, wallets, coats, shoes, etc.)

Planning Ahead

It is useful to be prepared in case wandering occurs. To prepare you can:

• Ask neighbours to call you if they see the person wandering alone.
• Keep a recent picture of the person in case you need to file a missing persons report.
• Have a list of important information ready to give to the police (ex: height, eye colour, medications, etc.).

What to do When Someone Wanders

• Begin looking nearby.
• Check for missing items that may indicate where they went.
• Call 911 or a local emergency and file a missing persons report.
• Check where they are likely to wander to.
• Have someone stay stay at home in case they return.