how do I stop my loved one from wandering at night
### How to Stop Your Loved One from Wandering at Night
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, especially when it comes to preventing wandering, which can be dangerous and stressful for both of you. Here are some simple and effective steps to help keep your loved one safe at night.
#### 1. **Create a Safe Environment**
First, make sure your home is set up to prevent wandering. Here are a few things you can do:
– **Lock Doors and Gates**: Lock all doors and gates to prevent your loved one from leaving the house. You can also install locks on cupboards and drawers to keep them safe.
– **Arrange Furniture**: Arrange furniture in a way that creates a safe path for your loved one to walk. This can help them stay in one area without feeling trapped.
– **Install Alarms**: Consider installing alarms on doors and gates. These alarms can alert you if your loved one tries to leave the house.
#### 2. **Establish a Daily Routine**
A daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can sometimes trigger wandering. Here’s how you can establish a routine:
– **Set a Bedtime Schedule**: Encourage your loved one to go to bed at the same time every night. This helps regulate their sleep patterns.
– **Dim the Lights**: In the evening, dim the lights and draw the shades to signal that it’s time for sleep.
– **Reduce Noise**: Keep the noise level low in the evening to help your loved one wind down.
#### 3. **Encourage Physical Activity During the Day**
Physical activity during the day can help reduce agitation and restlessness, which often lead to wandering at night. Here’s how you can encourage physical activity:
– **Take Walks**: Accompany your loved one on walks during the day. This can help them stay active and reduce the likelihood of wandering at night.
– **Engage in Leisure Activities**: Engage your loved one in their favorite leisure activities, such as reading, puzzles, or watching a movie. These activities can keep them occupied and reduce the urge to wander.
#### 4. **Use Assistive Technology**
There are many assistive technologies available that can help you keep track of your loved one and prevent wandering. Here are a few options:
– **Medical Alert Devices**: Consider using a medical alert device with GPS. These devices allow your loved one to wear a device that can alert you if they leave a certain area.
– **Smartphones with Safety Features**: Some smartphones, like the Jitterbug Smart4, have a large Urgent Response button that can connect your loved one with a 24/7 call center in case of an emergency.
#### 5. **Provide Emotional Support**
Sometimes, wandering at night can be a sign of emotional distress. Here’s how you can provide emotional support:
– **Listen Actively**: Listen to your loved one actively and try to understand what they are feeling. Sometimes, just listening can help them feel more secure.
– **Reassure Them**: Reassure your loved one that you are there to help and that they are safe. Physical touch and reassurance can be very comforting.
By following these steps, you can create a safer environment for your loved one and reduce the likelihood of wandering at night. Remember, every individual is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the best approach for your loved one. Always be patient and flexible, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need additional support.
