Lighting strategies to prevent wandering

Wandering is a common challenge for people living with dementia, and it can be dangerous, especially when it happens at night. One simple but effective way to help prevent wandering and keep loved ones safe is through smart lighting strategies.

First, **making sure the home has good lighting throughout the day** is important. Bright rooms with plenty of natural light help reduce confusion and make spaces easier to navigate. When areas are dim or shadowy, it can increase disorientation and the risk of falls.

At night, darkness can be very unsettling for someone with dementia. Using **motion-sensor nightlights** in key places like hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms creates a gentle glow that lights up only when needed. This helps guide them safely back to bed without startling them awake or causing confusion from harsh overhead lights.

Choosing **warm-toned lights** rather than bright white or blue tones makes the environment feel calmer and less clinical. Warm light reduces glare while still providing enough visibility to see obstacles clearly.

Another helpful tip is placing these nightlights along a clear path so your loved one can easily find their way without bumping into furniture or walls. Avoid clutter in these pathways to make navigation as simple as possible.

In addition to lighting itself, using signs or arrows illuminated by soft light can give visual cues that help orient someone who might otherwise feel lost inside their own home.

Overall, thoughtful use of lighting—bright during the day and softly lit at night—can create a safer environment that reduces anxiety and prevents wandering episodes caused by confusion in low-light conditions. It’s an easy adjustment that brings peace of mind both for caregivers and those living with dementia alike.