Text size: A | A | A High contrast: On Off
 


HOME SAFETY
Alzheimer's & Dementia
Bathroom
Bedroom
Kitchen & Dining
Living Room - Any Room
Smart Home
Stairs
Outdoors - Wandering

Wandering - Door Locks

Install Locks High or Low
Front door, garage, basement, balcony, & deck

Person's Reactions
Some walk away
Others get agitated

Redirect
"I need your help with lunch."
"Danny's on the phone."
"Tony Bennett's on – let's go watch the show."
But accompany if they leave

Use with Chime Alert

Secure Windows if Needed

See also:
Behaviors Alzheimer's Association

Wandering...What It Is and What to Do About It DVD, Alzheimer's Foundation of America



Narration:
Some caregivers install locks higher and/or lower than normal, as the person may not look for locks in these unexpected locations. Make sure you monitor all doors to the outside, including the basement and the deck. How the person will react to a locked door is very individual. Some will simply walk away when they cannot open the door, but others will become agitated, if they feel trapped or are used to coming and going on their own.

Here are a few examples of things to say to help redirect the person to an activity indoors.

If they insist on going out the door – you may want to go with them instead of trying to hold them back.

Along with extra locks, consider using a remote chime alert to let you know the person is trying to leave home .

For some individuals, you'll need to monitor the windows as well.





© Weill Cornell Medical College | Contact Us | Disclaimer | Share/Bookmark | Email Sign Up