Wandering is one of the most concerning behaviors for families caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. A loved one who unexpectedly leaves home or gets lost—even for a moment—can put themselves at serious risk. But there’s more to wandering than just “getting lost,” and once you understand why it happens, you can take steps to reduce the chances of it happening again.

Here’s what you need to know—and what too many caregivers miss.

What Triggers Wandering?

The reasons behind wandering aren’t always obvious. Some common triggers include:

• Boredom – Without mental or physical stimulation, walking aimlessly may feel like a way to cope.
  
• Confusion about time or place – A person might believe it’s time to go to work or pick up a child, even if those days are long past.
  
• Searching for something familiar – They may be trying to return “home,” even if they’ve lived in their current house for years.
  
• Medication effects – Certain prescriptions can cause restlessness, disorientation, or a sense of urgency.
  

But the triggers vary—and knowing the root cause helps you choose the right response.

Types of Wandering

Not all wandering looks the same:

• Elopement: The person leaves home or care without anyone knowing.
  
• Pacing or lapping: They walk repetitively within a space.
  
• Night wandering: They’re active at night, disrupting sleep and increasing fall risk.
  

Each pattern calls for a different strategy. What works for one might not work for another.

Prevention Starts at Home

Simple changes at home can make a massive difference:

• Install door alarms or chimes so you’re alerted if someone opens an exterior door.
  
• Use visual deterrents like black rugs in front of doors (often mistaken as holes by those with dementia).
  
• Add door locks in discreet places, such as the top or bottom of the doorframe—out of the direct line of sight.
  
• Use GPS bracelets or pendants for added peace of mind if someone does manage to leave.
  
• Keep coats, shoes, and keys out of sight to reduce the impulse to leave.
  

Want to go further? A downloadable “Wandering Prevention Home Checklist” can be a game-changer.

Caregiver Tips That Actually Work

It’s easy to say “keep them occupied.” But here’s what Happier at Home caregivers actually do:

• Schedule a regular daily walk at a time they often try to leave.
  
• Play familiar music to reduce anxiety and restlessness.
  
• Redirect attention with meaningful tasks—folding towels, watering plants, or sorting cards.
  
• Identify routines that seem to trigger wandering and adjust accordingly.
  

One caregiver shared, “My dad always tried to ‘go to work’ at 4pm. We started having him ‘check the mail’ around that time instead, and he forgot about leaving.”

When It Happens Anyway

Even with the best plans, wandering may still occur. If your loved one goes missing:

1. Call 911 immediately and explain the person has Alzheimer’s.
   
2. Notify neighbors and local businesses with a photo.
   
3. Share their favorite routes, past jobs, or childhood home locations—these are common destinations.
   

Programs like Silver Alert and MedicAlert Safe Return can help first responders locate them quickly. Don’t wait until something happens—enroll in advance.

Building Trust and Keeping Dignity

People with Alzheimer’s are still adults. Hiding keys or locking doors can feel like punishment. Be honest, calm, and reassuring.

• Say: “Let’s wait until it’s cooler to go out.”
  
• Avoid: “You’re not allowed to leave.”
  

Tone, language, and body posture matter just as much as the rules you set.

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Published June 2024 • Updated August 2025
Reviewed by Debbie Marcello, Founder & CEO of Happier at Home
This content is for informational use only and does not replace medical advice.