Who Is at Risk of Going Missing? What Research Tells Us About Wandering and Dementia

When caring for a loved one living with dementia, one of the biggest fears is that they may go missing. It’s a scenario no family ever wants to face — but it happens more often than many realize.

That’s why MedicAlert partnered with the university of Waterloo and the Search and Rescue National Information Framework (SARNIF) project to study real missing person cases. Using MedicAlert data, this research created profiles (or “personas”) of individuals who are most at risk of going missing. These profiles give caregivers practical insight into what wandering can look like, why it happens, and how to prepare.

What the Research Found

By analyzing dozens of missing person cases, the study identified several common profiles of risk. For caregivers, the value of this research is simple: it helps you recognize wandering behaviors earlier. By seeing your loved one reflected in one of these profiles, you can anticipate risks and take action before an incident occurs.

The Walker

Leaves home on foot, often following a familiar path, but becomes disoriented and cannot find their way back.

• Caregiver tip: Accompany walks whenever possible and establish safe, supervised walking routines.

The Errand-Goer

Sets out with purpose — to shop, visit family, or “go home” (even if they’re already there) — but gets lost along the way.

• Caregiver tip: Be alert during routine outings and consider gentle redirection strategies when errands come up.

The Escaper

Leaves suddenly, often without warning, and may travel a significant distance in a short time.

• Caregiver tip: Use door alarms, locks, or GPS-enabled technology to detect sudden exits.

The Searcher

Feels compelled to reach a specific destination (workplace, childhood home, place of worship) and wanders persistently toward it.

• Caregiver tip: Keep track of meaningful places from your loved one’s past — they may be drawn to them.

The Stroller

Wanders casually, without a clear goal. May remain near home but is still at risk of injury or disorientation.

• Caregiver tip: Ensure ID is always worn, even close to home, and build a “neighborhood safety net” by informing nearby residents.

The Vehicle User

Drives off in a car, often to a familiar destination, but becomes lost on the way.

• Caregiver tip: Monitor access to vehicles and discuss safe alternatives for transportation early on.

The Hider

Leaves but seeks out hidden or hard-to-find places (wooded areas, sheds, secluded trails).

• Caregiver tip: Share this risk with neighbors and first responders so searches can include hidden spots.

The Repetitive Wanderer

Wanders frequently, often at similar times of day or in recurring patterns.

• Caregiver tip: Track routines and notice “triggers” that may set off repeated episodes, such as late afternoon restlessness.

The Role of MedicAlert Data

This study was only possible because of MedicAlert’s decades of experience supporting people living with dementia. By analyzing anonymized case data, researchers could identify patterns that wouldn’t be visible in a single family’s experience.

The result: evidence-based profiles that give caregivers practical knowledge to help keep loved ones safe.

Putting the Research Into Action

Here are some caregiver steps inspired by the study:

• Identify your loved one’s wandering style. Does their behavior match one of the profiles?
• Adjust routines and environments. Make small changes (like supervising errands or creating safe walking spaces) that match their risk.
• Use identification. A MedicAlert ID ensures that if a wandering incident happens, first responders can act quickly.
• Build a support network. Neighbors, family, and community members can be part of your safety plan.

Knowledge as Prevention

The SARNIF study, using MedicAlert data, shows that while wandering can feel random, it often follows recognizable patterns. For caregivers, this knowledge can transform fear into preparedness.

By recognizing your loved one’s profile, you can put the right supports in place — and ensure that if they do go missing, they can be found quickly and returned home safely.