When a person with dementia keeps saying, “I want to go home,” it can be confusing and stressful for everyone. They might be sitting in their own living room but still feel lost or scared, insisting they need to leave. This happens because dementia changes how the brain understands time and place. The idea of “home” isn’t always about a real house or address—it’s more about feeling safe, comfortable, and like they belong.
## Why Do They Want to Go Home?
Dementia makes the world feel unfamiliar. Even familiar places can seem strange or scary. Sometimes, saying “I want to go home” is really a way of saying, “I feel unsafe,” “I’m hungry,” “I need the bathroom,” or even just “I’m bored.” Their brain mixes up signals, so what comes out is a request to go home when what they really need is something much simpler.
Routine is very important for people with dementia. When daily habits change—like new caregivers, different meal times, or too much noise—they can feel upset and look for comfort in the idea of going back to where things made sense.
## How Can You Help?
**Listen First**
Don’t argue or correct them by saying, “You are home.” That usually doesn’t help and can make them more upset. Instead, listen calmly and try to understand what might really be bothering them.
**Look for Clues**
Ask gentle questions like: Are you hungry? Thirsty? Do you need to use the bathroom? Sometimes meeting these basic needs stops the request right away.
**Redirect Gently**
If they insist on leaving to feed a pet that isn’t there anymore or see someone who has passed away, don’t focus on facts that might confuse them further. Try shifting their attention: “Let’s take a walk outside” or “How about we look at some photos together?”
**Keep Routines Steady**
Try to keep meals, activities, and bedtime at the same time every day. Familiar routines help them feel secure.
**Make Their Space Comfortable**
Reduce noise and clutter. Create cozy spots where they can relax without feeling overwhelmed by too much activity around them.
**Use Visual Cues**
Labels on doors (like pictures of a toilet on the bathroom door) can help them find their way around without getting frustrated.
## When Home Isn’t Enough
Sometimes no matter how much you try at home—with routines
