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Home Modification Resources

Booklet: Environmental Coping Srategies for Alzheimer's Caregivers

PART VIII. BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS: Wandering

Wandering has been described as "a tendency to move about, either in a seemingly aimless or disoriented fashion, or in pursuit of an indefinable or unobtainable goal."

Examples of wandering behavior are the following:

1. CONSTANT OR AGITATED PACING IN HOME:

Possible Underlying Causes:

In late afternoon, shadows may cause disturbing light patterns; too much glare; restlessness; need for exercise; boredom or too much stimulation resulting in confusion; effect of medications.

Possible Modifications:

• Introduce an activity that is appropriate to the functioning level of the person based on past interests or work.
• If person is very agitated in a particular room, take him/her into another room that is quiet and less stimulating.
• Regulate light in room by either providing more light, reducing shadows or glare through adjustable shades on window.
• Provide enclosed backyard area for person to wander.
• Provide more opportunity for exercise during the day (e.g., taking a walk).
• Provide a platform rocker or other chair that swivels/rocks, which may help to relieve restlessness.
• Provide music or dancing activity.
• Check with doctor regarding medications and possible reactions.

 

2. LEAVING HOME UNATTENDED:

Possible Underlying Causes:

Desire for exercise or movement; disorientation; need to go to a specific place.

Possible Modifications:

• Install lock on door that is difficult to operate.
• Place lock at bottom or top of door. Install child-proof door knob.
• Disguise door with piece of fabric that can be velcroed over the knob (use same color fabric as door).
• Put alarm on door.
• Provide person with Medic Alert bracelet.
• Provide pocket card with name.
• Make sure large windows are secured and cannot be used as an exit.
• Alert police, neighbors.
• Take person out for regular walks.

 

3. WANDERING IN MIDDLE OF NIGHT:

Possible Underlying Causes:

Too much medication; too much light in room; difficulty separating hallucinations and dreams from reality; misinterpretation of dim shapes in poor light; need to go to bathroom; too much sleeping during the daytime; not enough exercise during the day.

Posible Modifications:

• Install bed rail at side of bed. If person tries to climb over, discontinue use.
• Install battery-operated intercom or monitoring system that will allow hearing what the person is doing in other rooms.
• Attach bell to door so that it will alert someone when it is opened.
• Use darkening shades on window to keep out light.
• Install nightlights in bathroom and hallway.
• Install portable gate at top of stairs.
• Put portable commode next to bed.
• Increase activity during the day.
• Reduce fluid intake during the day.

part viii

• Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Part I
• Part II
• Part III
• Part IV
• Part V
• Part VI
• Part VII
• Part VIII
• Appendices
• Selected Bibliography