Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's or dementia can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it also comes with unique challenges. One such challenge is wandering, a behavior commonly associated with these conditions. It’s also one of our focus areas at MedicAlert and the reason why we created our Safe & Found Program.
Wandering is a term used to describe the behavior of individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia who move about aimlessly, often without a clear purpose or destination. It can involve pacing, walking in circles, or even leaving the home without awareness of where they are going. Research published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease (2019) suggests that wandering is a common and distressing symptom for both individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.
Understanding the underlying causes of wandering is crucial for caregivers. Several factors contribute to this behavior, including:
Cognitive Impairment: The progressive decline in cognitive function, a hallmark of Alzheimer's and dementia, can lead to disorientation and confusion, triggering wandering.
Restlessness: Individuals with these conditions may experience restlessness, making them more inclined to move about.
Environmental Triggers: Environmental factors such as noise, unfamiliar surroundings, or changes in routine can trigger wandering episodes.
Unmet Needs: Wandering can sometimes be an attempt to communicate unmet needs, such as hunger, thirst, pain, or the need for social interaction.
MedicAlert’s recent research with the University of Waterloo clearly underscores that wandering can have several consequences for individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia. Wandering can put individuals at risk of getting lost, falling, or becoming disoriented in unsafe environments. It can be distressing for the person with dementia, causing agitation, anxiety, and confusion.
But one of the greatest challenges is that wandering episodes put strain on relationships with caregivers and family members. Research published in the Journal of Gerontological Nursing (2018) highlights the significant emotional stress experienced by caregivers due to wandering behaviors. Wandering necessitates constant supervision, increasing the caregiver's workload and making it challenging to balance other responsibilities. The constant worry about the safety of their loved ones can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Caregivers often face sleep disturbances as they stay alert to prevent wandering during the night. This chronic sleep deprivation can negatively affect their own health and well-being. The need for respite care becomes more apparent as caregivers grapple with the continuous demands of caring for someone who wanders. Respite care offers caregivers a break and a chance to recharge.
While wandering can be stressful and emotionally taxing for caregivers, it is essential to seek help and support. Various strategies and resources are available to assist caregivers in managing wandering behaviors and alleviating the associated challenges. This includes MedicAlert’s HealthHub, a vital resource available to all MedicAlert subscribers and their care partners.
Caregivers play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for their loved ones with Alzheimer's or dementia, and with the right support, they can navigate this complex journey with greater resilience and confidence.
