Wandering is one of the most common behaviours linked with dementia, and it can be one of the most worrying for families. A loved one who is usually steady and familiar with their surroundings can suddenly begin walking off to another room, leaving the house at odd times or setting off with a purpose they can’t explain. It is unsettling, but it is also a sign that the person is trying to meet a need, communicate something or make sense of the world around them.
With the right support, routines and a few thoughtful adjustments at home, it is possible to reduce wandering and create a safer, calmer environment.
This guide explores why wandering happens, how you can lower the risks and where to find help if you need more hands-on support.
Why Do People With Dementia Wander?
There is no single reason for wandering. Most people living with dementia experience changes in memory, decision-making, navigation and awareness of time. These changes can lead to situations where a person heads out of the house or moves around in ways that feel unusual or unsafe.
Common causes include:
- Confusion about time and place – A person may believe it is time to go to work, pick up a child or meet someone, even if those responsibilities were part of their life many years ago.
- Restlessness – Difficulty sitting still, discomfort or a need for movement can all lead to unplanned walking.
- Searching for something or someone – They may be looking for a room, an object or a familiar face, but struggle to remember exactly what they are trying to find.
- Distress or discomfort – Pain, hunger, thirst or the need for the toilet can trigger wandering if the person cannot express the problem clearly.
- Changes in routine – Illness, poor sleep, unfamiliar surroundings or a disrupted pattern can increase the likelihood of wandering.
Understanding the reason behind wandering behaviour is the first step. Once you can spot the triggers, it becomes easier to put supportive measures in place.
Creating a Safe and Calm Home Environment
Small adjustments around the house can make a big difference in reducing the risks linked to wandering. Many of these changes focus on helping the person stay oriented, calm and comfortable.
- Keep essential items in sight – Labelled cupboards, open shelves or clear signage can make it easier for someone to find the things they need without feeling frustrated or lost.
- Improve lighting – Shadows and dim corners can increase confusion, especially during the evening. Good lighting helps with navigation and reduces distress.
- Use visual cues – Simple signs for the bathroom, kitchen or bedroom help the person recognise spaces they use frequently.
- Make the bedroom feel welcoming – Night-time wandering is common. Comfortable bedding, low-level lighting and a familiar layout support a better night’s sleep.
- Secure the home without making it feel restrictive – Install simple door alarms or sensors that make a soft sound if someone leaves the house. Outdoor gates, motion-activated lights and secure garden areas can all offer peace of mind.
- Avoid clutter – A tidy space is easier to navigate and reduces tripping hazards.
A supportive environment gives the person more freedom to move safely while still protecting them from harm.
Building Helpful Routines
Routine plays a central role in preventing wandering. When a person knows what to expect each day, they feel more grounded and secure.
- Regular mealtimes – Predictable eating patterns reduce hunger-related restlessness.
- Daily activities – Reading, puzzles, listening to music or gentle housework can provide focus and structure.
- Planned movement – Short walks or light exercise during the day can relieve restlessness and support better sleep.
- Consistent sleep schedule – Going to bed and waking up at similar times helps reduce evening confusion, which is often a trigger for wandering.
- Familiar rhythms – Reassurance routines such as a warm drink at night, a favourite programme or a quiet chat can gently anchor the person emotionally.
While routines will change over time, the aim is to give the person a sense of flow and purpose throughout the day, helping them to live well with dementia.
Meeting Emotional and Physical Needs
Wandering often emerges when a need is unmet. By keeping an eye on comfort, health and emotional wellbeing, many episodes can be reduced.
- Monitor pain and discomfort – Joint pain, infections, constipation or poor-fitting clothing can all cause agitation. Regular medical checks help identify issues early.
- Encourage hydration – Thirst can cause confusion and restlessness, especially in later stages.
- Watch for signs of anxiety – Raised shoulders, pacing, irritability or repeated questioning may signal that the person is unsettled.
- Offer reassurance – A calm voice, familiar object or gentle hand on the arm can settle moments of confusion.
- Support meaningful connection – Time spent talking, listening or recalling memories can ease loneliness, which often contributes to wandering.
Listening closely to the person’s cues makes it easier to understand what might be driving their behaviour.
Technology and Tools That Can Help
There are many practical tools that support safety without taking away independence.
- Wearable GPS devices – These can help locate someone quickly if they do leave the house.
- Door sensors – A quiet alert lets you know if an external door has been opened.
- Fall monitors – Some devices detect unusual movement and signal an alert automatically.
- Phone location sharing – Simple smartphone features can give peace of mind for individuals who still go out independently.
Technology for dementia care at home is most effective when used alongside personal support and a calm environment.
What To Do if Someone Wanders
Even with all the right measures in place, wandering can still happen. Staying prepared helps you respond quickly and safely.
- Keep a recent photo handy – This can be useful if you need to involve neighbours or local authorities.
- Know favourite places – Many people return to locations that feel meaningful such as an old workplace or a familiar shop.
- Check the immediate surroundings – Gardens, sheds or nearby benches are common spots where someone may pause.
- Let neighbours know – If you feel comfortable, trusted neighbours can act as an extra pair of eyes.
If a person is missing for any period that feels unsafe, contact emergency services immediately.
How Live-in Care Reduces Wandering and Supports Independence
Wandering often becomes more common as dementia progresses, and many families find that additional support brings much-needed reassurance. Live-in carers provide around the clock companionship and supervision, which helps lower the risks associated with wandering.
A live-in carer can:
- recognise early signs of confusion or restlessness
- guide the person back to safety without causing distress
- support healthy routines and sleep
- provide regular meals and hydration
- help with medication
- keep the environment calm and predictable
- offer consistent emotional comfort
Talk to our team today
Country Cousins has been supporting families since 1959. Our carers are experienced in dementia care and understand the gentle, patient approach needed when someone is at risk of wandering. The aim is always to protect safety while preserving independence and dignity.
If you are concerned about wandering or would like to learn more about how live-in care can support someone living with dementia, our team is here to help. Call us on 01293 224 706, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, or send us a message through our online enquiry form.
