The Most Common Wandering Profile in Dementia: The Walker

When a loved one with dementia goes missing, it can feel like it came out of nowhere. But research shows there are patterns behind these incidents — and the most common profile is known as The Walker.

Using MedicAlert data, the University of Waterloo's Search and Rescue National Information Framework (SARNIF) project studied dozens of real missing person cases involving people living with dementia. The findings revealed that most often, individuals left home on foot — setting out on a walk, sometimes with purpose, sometimes casually — and became disoriented.

Who Is The Walker?

The Walker is a person who:

• Leaves on foot, usually from home or a familiar place.
• Often begins along a well-known path or routine.
• Becomes confused or disoriented, and cannot find their way back.

Importantly, Walkers are often found close to home — sometimes within a block or two. This shows that even short, familiar walks can turn risky when dementia is involved.

Why The Walker Profile Matters

Because walking is such a common, everyday activity, this profile represents a hidden risk. Caregivers may assume that “just a quick walk” is safe. But the research tells a different story: many missing incidents start with a simple walk.

For caregivers, this means:

• Wandering isn’t always sudden or unpredictable.
• Even familiar routines carry risk.
• Supervision and preparation are essential — especially for those who enjoy walking.

What Caregivers Can Do

If your loved one fits The Walker profile, here are steps you can take:

1. Accompany Walks
   Turn walking into a shared activity. This preserves independence while ensuring safety.
2. Plan Safe Routes
   Keep routes short, predictable, and in areas where neighbors recognize your loved one.
3. Involve the Community
   Let neighbors and local shopkeepers know your loved one may become disoriented and how they can help.
4. Always Use Identification
   A MedicAlert ID ensures that if your loved one is found by a passerby or first responder, their medical history and your contact details are immediately available.
5. Watch for Timing Patterns
   Many walking-related incidents happen in the late afternoon or evening, when confusion (sometimes called “sundowning”) increases. Build extra safety measures into those times.

The Role of MedicAlert

This profile was identified through the study of real cases involving MedicAlert subscribers. Because of MedicAlert’s data and partnerships with first responders, we can turn lived experiences into knowledge that protects families.

The Walker profile reminds us that even ordinary activities can carry extraordinary risks — but also that with preparation, caregivers can maintain safety while respecting independence.

If your loved one enjoys walking, take heart: with the right supports, walking can remain a safe and meaningful part of their life. Knowing the risks is the first step toward peace of mind.