Health Tip: When Alzheimer's Patients Wander

(HealthDay News) -- Wandering -- moving about without a definite purpose in mind -- is a common trait of a person with Alzheimer''s disease and other forms of dementia. This can be dangerous for the patient, and be a source of great stress for worried caregivers and loved ones.

Here are suggestions for what to do when Alzheimer''s patients wander, courtesy of the Alzheimer''s Association:

• Enroll your loved one in a nationwide identification program specifically for dementia-related wandering, which can help them return home safe.
• Keep contact information at hand for neighbors and local emergency services personnel, and keep them informed about the patient''s condition.
• Install deadbolt or slide-bolt locks on all exterior doors. But never attempt to lock an Alzheimer''s patient indoors without supervision.
• Limit access to dangerous areas, both inside and near the home.
• Keep in mind that Alzheimer''s patients may wander in virtually any form of transportation, including bus or taxi.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: Aug. 30, 2007

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