DEMENTIA: Episode 3 – My wandering loved one.
October 26, 2017
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People with Dementia will wander and often walk aimlessly without any idea of where they are going or where they came from. This can be extremely distressing for their family and more importantly frightening for the loved one themselves. Trying to pin down the triggers behind the reason they wander is a very difficult task. They may be thirsty or hungry or be needing the toilet. Some may even want some exercise. Schedule regular exercise so that they would be less inclined to head off on their own.
The constant worrying that comes from keeping your loved one safe from wandering off is overwhelming and stressful. Here are some helpful points and ideas that you may consider implementing into your home.
- LOCKS.
Consider changing all the locks on all the doors of your home. Place them higher or lower than eye level because a person with dementia will probably not think to look up or down. Make sure the locks have a key that opens and locks them. As hard and distressing as it may be, one should put childproof covers on the door knobs. It is unfathomable that we would have to treat our spouse or loved one as if they were a child.
- IDENTIFICATION.
It is a great idea to get your loved one to wear an ID Bracelet and label all their clothes. Make sure to give your local Alzheimer’s Association their photograph, name and personal details. Consider doing the same with your local Police Station so that they have all the information should you need to report them missing.
- GPS.
We are very lucky in this day and age, that we can not only track our cars and phones, but we can track our loved ones too. There are watches with GPS trackers on that are a great option to consider, as this would make locating the person much quicker. GPS units that clip onto belts are also an option. I am quite old school in my approach to technology but I believe this is a wonderful tool to ensure the safety of your loved one.
- GET YOUR NEIGHBOURS ONBOARD.
Sometimes families find it hard to share what’s happening behind closed doors. Make your neighbours aware of the situation. Explain the condition and all it entails and ask them to perhaps take special notice should they see your person about to wander down the road or out of the house. provide them with your numbers so you can be made aware immediately.
- BLACK SQUARE.
I know you thinking that heading sounds bizarre and well it is indeed an unusual option but I think it’s certainly worth a try. Place a large black matt or even painted black square at your front door. They may see it as an impassable black hole that they cannot cross and decide to not leave the house.Dementia is a heart wrenching and soul destroying condition for both the person and those that desperately love them, but there are options and help out there to help ease the process for both parties.
Are you in need of a home carer? We can help.
https://www.divinecare.co.za/contact-us