{"id":17713,"date":"2025-07-10T08:00:43","date_gmt":"2025-07-10T08:00:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/?p=17713"},"modified":"2025-07-11T17:32:28","modified_gmt":"2025-07-11T17:32:28","slug":"wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/","title":{"rendered":"<strong>Wandering Worries: How Edmonton Families Can Support Seniors with Dementia<\/strong>"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>It\u2019s every family\u2019s nightmare: a beloved parent or grandparent suddenly slips out of sight\u2014no note, no warning\u2014just gone.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those living with dementia in Edmonton, AB, <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-edmonton-ab\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wandering<\/a> isn\u2019t just an inconvenience; it\u2019s downright scary. As memory fades and confusion creeps in, even once-familiar streets can turn into mazes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At Always Best Care of Edmonton, we\u2019ve seen firsthand how frightening this can be for families, and we know there are practical steps you can take to help keep your loved one safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>What you will learn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Gain insight into the common reasons behind wandering behaviours and learn how to recognize if your loved one may be at risk.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Discover actionable tips for creating a secure, supportive environment that balances safety with dignity for seniors living with dementia.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Understand the benefits of specialized memory care and learn how to involve neighbours and local resources to keep your loved one safe and supported in Edmonton.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#Why_Do_People_with_Dementia_Wander\" title=\"Why Do People with Dementia Wander?\">Why Do People with Dementia Wander?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#Spotting_the_Warning_Signs_Is_Your_Loved_One_at_Risk\" title=\"Spotting the Warning Signs: Is Your Loved One at Risk?\">Spotting the Warning Signs: Is Your Loved One at Risk?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#How_Can_We_Reduce_Wandering_Risk\" title=\"How Can We Reduce Wandering Risk?\">How Can We Reduce Wandering Risk?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#When_is_Memory_Care_the_Right_Choice\" title=\"When is Memory Care the Right Choice?\">When is Memory Care the Right Choice?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#FAQ_Keeping_Seniors_Safe_from_Wandering\" title=\"FAQ: Keeping Seniors Safe from Wandering\">FAQ: Keeping Seniors Safe from Wandering<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/wandering-dementia-edmonton-ab\/#Discover_Practical_Steps_to_Prevent_Wandering_and_Support_Seniors_with_Dementia_in_Edmonton\" title=\"Discover Practical Steps to Prevent Wandering and Support Seniors with Dementia in Edmonton!\">Discover Practical Steps to Prevent Wandering and Support Seniors with Dementia in Edmonton!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Do_People_with_Dementia_Wander\"><\/span><strong>Why Do People with Dementia Wander?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dementia brings more than forgetfulness; it stirs up restlessness and confusion that may send someone searching for comfort or simply a way out. So what sends our loved ones walking off without warning?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Looking for lost connections<\/strong> (like searching for someone who passed away years ago).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Trying to stick to old routines<\/strong> (heading \u201cto work\u201d long after retirement).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agitation or sensory overload<\/strong> that makes the home feel less like home.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simple boredom or loneliness<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Disorientation<\/strong>, where yesterday seems closer than today.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/241-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A cheerful caregiver in scrubs interacts with a smiling elderly woman while other seniors participate in a group activity. The Always Best Care logo is visible in the bottom right corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/241-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/241-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/241-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/241.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Spotting_the_Warning_Signs_Is_Your_Loved_One_at_Risk\"><\/span><strong>Spotting the Warning Signs: Is Your Loved One at Risk?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Not everyone will wander, but certain behaviours should set off alarm bells:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Frequently heading toward doors or windows.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Repeatedly talking about needing to leave (\u201cI have an appointment,\u201d \u201cI need to go home\u201d).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Seeming unsettled in crowded spaces.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Struggling to recognize their own house.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pacing near exits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If any of these ring true at your house here in Edmonton, don\u2019t brush them aside. A gentle conversation could save a world of worry later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Can_We_Reduce_Wandering_Risk\"><\/span><strong>How Can We Reduce Wandering Risk?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Keeping seniors safe isn\u2019t about locking every door. It\u2019s about creating security <em>and<\/em> dignity under one roof. Here are tried-and-tested tips straight from our experience with families across Alberta:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Secure the Home Environment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t wait until disaster strikes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use door alarms or motion sensors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Install locks above eye level.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Try GPS tracking devices (discreet but life-saving).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/240-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A younger woman points to a calendar on the wall while assisting an older woman in a wheelchair who appears to be experiencing memory challenges. The Always Best Care logo is in the top right corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17719\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/240-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/240-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/240-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/240.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Build Predictable Routines<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A day filled with familiar activities helps soothe nerves and reduces the itch to wander:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Regular meal times.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gentle exercise walks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Memory games or crafts.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Calm the Chaos<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Too much noise? Too many visitors? Sometimes, less really is more:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep the TV volume low.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid sudden schedule changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Meet Emotional Needs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A friendly face can do wonders:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Arrange regular visits from friends and neighbours.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer simple chores; folding laundry counts!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/239-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A caregiver in a purple uniform shares a warm moment with an elderly woman while looking at a photo album together. The Always Best Care logo is in the top left corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17718\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/239-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/239-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/239-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/142\/2025\/07\/239.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Clear Visual Cues Work Wonders<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Help make navigation easier:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Place labels on doors (\u201cBathroom,\u201d \u201cKitchen\u201d).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use arrows on walls if needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Get Neighbours Involved<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>People look out for each other here! Make sure trusted neighbours know what\u2019s going on so they\u2019re ready if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_Memory_Care_the_Right_Choice\"><\/span><strong>When is Memory Care the Right Choice?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Sometimes, love means knowing when things have gone <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/resources\/encouraging-your-aging-parent-to-accept-help\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">beyond what family alone can handle<\/a>. Specialized <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/dementia-care\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">memory care<\/a>, like what we provide right here in Edmonton, is built around safety <em>and<\/em> quality of life:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Benefit<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Staff available around the clock<\/strong><\/td><td>Quick response if someone wanders<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Secured entry\/exit points<\/strong><\/td><td>Prevents unintentional escapes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Therapeutic programs<\/strong><\/td><td>Keeps minds engaged<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Personalized care plans<\/strong><\/td><td>Addresses unique needs<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing memory care doesn\u2019t mean giving up hope; it means trusting us together as partners so your loved one gets both freedom <em>and<\/em> protection where it matters most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQ_Keeping_Seniors_Safe_from_Wandering\"><\/span><strong>FAQ: Keeping Seniors Safe from Wandering<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Does every person with dementia eventually wander?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A: Not always, but everyone deserves proactive planning just in case it happens down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: Are GPS trackers intrusive? Will my loved one mind wearing them?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A: Many devices today look like regular watches or pendants; most people adapt quickly once they see how much peace of mind they bring!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: What if my neighbour spots my parent outside alone\u2014what should they do?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A: Share your contact details ahead of time so neighbours know who to call right away if anything seems off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Q: How does Always Best Care support families dealing with wandering risks?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A: We offer personalized home visits plus connections with trusted local resources, including secure memory care options designed just for situations like this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Discover_Practical_Steps_to_Prevent_Wandering_and_Support_Seniors_with_Dementia_in_Edmonton\"><\/span><strong>Discover Practical Steps to Prevent Wandering and Support Seniors with Dementia in Edmonton!<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Wandering is tough for seniors facing dementia and for those who love them most. But by staying alert for warning signs and putting thoughtful safeguards into place now\u2014not tomorrow\u2014you\u2019ll sleep easier tonight knowing you\u2019ve done everything possible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And remember: At Always Best Care of Edmonton, you\u2019ve got compassionate partners ready whenever questions arise or when it feels too heavy going solo. Together we\u2019ll keep everyone safer, one step at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmontoneast\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Always Best Care of Edmonton<\/a> at <a href=\"tel:(587) 407-1366\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(587) 407-1366<\/a> to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how Edmonton families can recognize, prevent, and respond to wandering in seniors with dementia, offering practical tips and local resources for support.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17722,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[164],"tags":[319,320,321,322,299,318],"class_list":["post-17713","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dementia-care"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17713","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17713"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17713\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17725,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17713\/revisions\/17725"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17722"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17713"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17713"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcarecanada.ca\/edmonton\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17713"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}