Seniors who have dementia may be prone to wandering. Sometimes older loved ones are found in their own homes unsure of where they are. Other times this rambling can lead them outside to stroll the streets, unaware of their surroundings. What causes this seemingly random urge to walk? Below, Memory Care Home Solutions in Saint Louis, MO, shares four factors that affect individuals with dementia. 

People With Dementia May Wander Because of These 4 Factors

1. Disrupted Routines

For many seniors, a routine is a crucial element to managing their memory loss. Habits help them function in their daily lives and provide a sense of security. If their schedule is interrupted, they may wander unsure of what to do or where they are.

2. Looking for Something or Someone

Seniors can leave their homes and walk around their neighborhood confused while trying to locate something they’re missing. They may be on the look for car keys, their purse, or even a dog that hasn’t been in their life for years. Seniors may also go wandering in search of a person they think they’ve lost or are supposed to meet up with. 

3. Boredom

When your loved one grows bored, they will want to entertain themselves. Sometimes this can cause them to walk around their home or wander their neighborhood trying to find a way to amuse themselves. If confusion kicks in, they might not find their way back home and may require assistance to remember their address.

4. Restlessness

Many seniors spent much of their lives being active. They may have attended social engagements, ran errands, and kept up appointments by themselves for many years. When dementia sets in, they may still feel an urge to get up and go, but they no longer know where they should be and end up wandering to channel their restless energy.

Caregivers can prevent wandering by avoiding triggers and using safety measures to prevent their older friends and family members from leaving the house without someone assisting them. Memory Care Home Solutions helps caregivers plan for the future of their senior loved ones by providing free resources and training. To learn about their available family caregiver training to reduce your stress and improve safety, call (314) 645-6247. Visit the website for more information on their dementia solutions.