Tips for Wandering Behaviors

• Wandering (often called Sundowning) is often associated with a traditional transition time   
  
  •  try to create a transition by providing a change of scenery
  •  go for a walk together   
  •  engage your care recipient in a meaningful activity like helping with a meal
  •  ask grandchildren or neighbors to come visit during this time as a distraction
• Make sure your care recipient always has an ID on his or her person
• Use ID alert bracelets to help identify someone who is found wandering
• Keep coats and shoes separate from the entry area so they are harder to access
• Install door alarms that notify you when the door opens
• Send a letter to neighbors asking that they keep a lookout for your care recipient
• Investigate your local police/sherrif's office for a GPS (global positioning system) bracelet system
• Make sure car keys are safely out of reach
• Make a stop sign for the front door
• Make a sign at the door that says "If you are going for a walk, come get me—I want to come with you"