Protecting Our Seniors: Understanding Wandering and How to Prevent It
As we age, our bodies and minds go through various changes, and some of those changes can make seniors more prone to wandering. Wandering, when it comes to seniors, is a serious concern that affects not only their safety but also their overall well-being. Understanding the dangers, the signs that they may be at risk, and how to prevent wandering is crucial for loved ones. This knowledge can also help them assess what home care assistance is needed.
The Dangers of Seniors Wandering
Wandering among seniors can lead to a range of hazards and consequences. Understanding those dangers allows for home care assistance and for loved ones to create a care plan that keeps seniors safe.
Physical danger: Seniors who wander run a higher risk of mishaps and injuries like falls, fractures, and car accidents.
Cognitive Decline: Wandering can be an early sign of cognitive decline, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It can exacerbate the confusion and anxiety associated with these conditions.
Emotional Distress: Both the wandering senior and their family members may experience emotional distress and anxiety due to the uncertainty and safety concerns.
Increased Caregiver Stress: Family members and those who offer Alzheimer’s home care assistance can experience significant stress and worry when a senior loved one is prone to wandering, as they must constantly monitor their safety.
Signs That Point to Seniors Wandering
Recognizing the signs that seniors might be at risk for wandering is crucial for early intervention and prevention. Some common signs include:
Disorientation: Seniors who are frequently confused about their surroundings, even in familiar places, may be at risk of wandering.
Frequent Attempts to Leave: Repeatedly trying to leave their home or a care facility with the intent of going somewhere else is a clear sign of wandering.
Difficulty Recognizing Loved Ones: Failing to recognize family members and friends is an alarming sign, especially if it happens consistently.
Restlessness and Agitation: Uncharacteristic restlessness, pacing, or agitation can indicate an underlying urge to wander.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: Seniors who experience disrupted sleep patterns, such as waking up at odd hours and wanting to leave, may be at risk.
Packing Personal Items: Some seniors may pack bags with personal items as if preparing for a trip, even when no such trip is planned.
Preventing Seniors From Wandering
Preventing seniors from wandering requires a proactive approach that focuses on their safety and well-being. Loved ones need to work with home care assistance to ensure a coordinated effort. One of the easiest prevention tips may be to Install locks, alarms, and security measures to prevent seniors from easily leaving the home unattended. Also, it’s vital to determine how the senior can be identified if they’re found wandering. For instance, an identification bracelet or necklace with their name and contact information can help, as can investing in technology such as GPS Soles or another form of smart tracking.
The home care team and loved ones can also work to maintain a routine. Seniors thrive on routines, and maintaining one keeps them from feeling restless. The routine should be filled with activities that encourage seniors to fully engage, such as physical activity or social functions. Also, ensuring seniors have home care assistance at times when they’re more likely to wander is a good idea. Something else to consider is the medication seniors take. There are some medications that cause disorientation or restlessness that might lean toward wandering.
Wandering among seniors is a complex and challenging issue that requires a combination of preventive measures and support from the home care team.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s home care in Buckeye, AZ please contact the caring staff at Blessings! for Seniors Companion Care today. Call (623) 594-0819
Blessings! for Seniors Companion Care, is a top provider of home care services in Goodyear, Avondale, Buckeye, Glendale, Peoria, Litchfield Park, Sun City, Sun City West, Tolleson, Phoenix, Youngtown, Surprise and surrounding areas.
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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