Alzheimer’s wandering behaviors especially dangerous during the winter months of year
TOLEDO, Ohwandering behavior in individuals living with Alzheimer’s is fairly common. In fact, six in 10 individuals with the disease wander at least once and many do so repeatedly. During the cold months of winter, this behavior puts this vulnerable population at greater risk.
“Although common, wandering can be dangerous, even life-threatening, especially during the winter season,” said Pamela Myers, program director for the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter. “This behavior risk causes stress that weighs heavily on caregivers and families.”
“Hypothermia and frostbite are real dangers for those who wander off and get lost in winter. Even in 50-degree temperatures, too much core and limb heat can be lost, and in freezing temperatures that body heat is lost rapidly,” Myers said.
Families and individuals of loved ones living with Alzheimer’s can take advantage of the extensive suggestions and planning resources provided on the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter website at www.alz.org/nwohio in the help support sections.
Myers continued, “Alzheimer’s disease causes people to lose their ability to recognize familiar places and faces, and it’s common for a person living with dementia to wander or become lost or confused about their location, even in the early stages of the disease.”
Suggestions from the website include:
Watch for signs of wandering
Everyone living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia is at risk for wandering behavior. Common signs a person may be at risk of wandering include:
and
· Returning from a regular walk or drive later than usual.
·Forgetting how to get to familiar places.
·Talking about fulfilling former obligations, such as going to work.
· Trying or wanting to “go home” even when at home.
“This plan helps first responders and families reconnect with individuals living with dementia who experience a medical emergency or wander.” Information about this nationwide, 24/7 emergency wandering response service can be obtained by contacting the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. The Helpline can also assist with plan enrollment.