“Wandering” poses a danger to people with Alzheimer’s disease. There are ways to reduce the risk

The death of an 80-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s disease who was hit by a car in Deltona last week highlights the pressing problem of wandering.

The woman was walking along the roadway in the 1400 block of Deltona Boulevard around 7:10 p.m. on Oct. 23. About 10 minutes later, the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office received a call reporting her missing.

Jennifer Braisted, director of government relations for the Alzheimer’s Association of Florida, says six out of 10 people living with the disease will pass away at some point.

They may be nervous in social situations. Perhaps they think it’s time to go to work, or, not knowing where they are, they think it’s time to go home.

Braisted said that, unfortunately, traveling is a risk for anyone living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.

“So it’s really important to, you know, really understand,” she said, “who is at risk, who is at higher risk, what are the signs that your loved one living with dementia is at risk, how can you reduce that risk?” and then you yourself understand what to do if such a situation does happen.”

The Alzheimer’s Association has answers to these questions on its website alz.org/wandering. Local sheriff’s offices have registries and wearable tracking devices that can help. Some departments have programs that provide tracking devices.

The technology includes GPS devices, networked GPS, radio frequency identification (or RFID) and online applications, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Everyone has its advantages and limitations.

National Institute on Aging quotes A 2011 study of news reports found that a significant percentage of missing people with dementia who wandered were found dead the next day.

Dangers “include injury, dehydration, exposure to severe weather, medical complications, drowning or being hit by a car,” the NIA said.

The agency has the following tips to help ensure the safety of a traveler:

Make sure the person has some form of identification or medical bracelet with their name, address, and your phone number.
If you think the person may be able to remove the ID bracelet, write their name and phone number on their clothing.
There are many GPS systems available to track a person’s location. They can be a good alternative or addition to a medical bracelet.
Tell neighbors and local police that the person with Alzheimer’s disease has a tendency to wander.
Keep a recent photo or video of the person to help police if the person gets lost.

The NIA also recommends the following safety measures for homes where a person with Alzheimer’s disease lives:

Keep doors locked. Consider a keyed deadbolt or add another lock located high or low on the door. If a person can open the lock, you may need a new latch or lock. Keep the key handy in case of emergency.
Post “STOP,” “DO NOT ENTER,” or “CLOSED” signs on doors.
Install a smart doorbell or alarm that beeps when the door is opened.
Secure your yard with fencing and locked gates.
Install security devices to limit the number of windows you open.
Keep shoes, keys, suitcases, coats, hats and other signs of departure out of sight.
Do not leave a person with Alzheimer’s disease who has a history of wandering unattended.