Understanding and Responding to Challenging Behaviors in Alzheimer’s Disease

cont. from

Walking or Wandering in Alzheimer's

Many people with Alzheimer's feel compelled to walk about or leave their homes. This can be worrying for their caregiver, and can at times put the person in danger. But it is important to find a solution that preserves the person’s independence and dignity.

If the person with Alzheimer's starts 'wandering', the first step is to look at the reasons behind their behavior. Once you identify what the person is trying to achieve, you can start to find other ways to meet their needs, reducing their desire to walk alone.

It can be very troubling for a caregiver when the person they are caring for starts to walk about in an apparently aimless way. A person with Alzheimer's might get up and leave the house in the middle of the night. Or they might knock on the neighbors’ doors at inconvenient times of the day. Occasionally, people get lost and are discovered, confused, miles from home. This can make the caregiver feel very anxious and concerned for the person’s safety.

Some caregivers find it reassuring to know that this type of behavior does not last – it seems to be a phase of the condition that people go through. In addition, most people with Alzheimer's retain their road sense and are rarely involved in traffic accidents.

What can you do?

The first thing to consider is why the person might be doing this, so that you can find ways to deal with the situation. Think about why people generally choose to go for a walk:

• Walking helps us to keep fit and to sleep better at night.
• It is a good way to relieve tension and stop us feeling ‘cooped up’ inside the house.
• It can be an enjoyable way to see what is going on in the outside world.

For many people, whether they have Alzheimer's or not, walking is a lifelong habit. A person with Alzheimer's who has always walked a lot for the above reasons may find it very difficult to remain in one place for long periods of time.

continue:  Drugs Used For Behavioral Problems Associated With Alzheimer's and Dementia

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Reviewed: 03/2006