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    Wandering Prevention

    60% of dementia patients wander. Prepare ahead.

    GPS tracking devices

    • AngelSense GPS — wearable. Senior-specific. $30/mo.
    • Apple Watch — fall detection + family sharing. $200+.
    • Tile / Apple AirTag — attach to clothes/keys. $25-30 one-time.
    • GPS SmartSole — hidden in shoe insole. $300 + $30/mo.
    • Theora Care GPS — caregiver-monitored.
    • Project Lifesaver — local police program. FREE in many counties.

    Door alarms + locks

    • Door alarms — magnetic, $20. Beep when door opens.
    • Smart locks — log when door opens. App alerts.
    • Door knob covers — confuse but allow caregiver.
    • Childproof locks high on door.
    • Stop signs on doors — visual cue.
    • Velcro stripe across door — confuses.
    • Don't lock from outside — fire hazard.

    Medical ID

    • MedicAlert + Alzheimer's Association Wandering Support — $35 + $40/yr.
    • Bracelet engraved "Alzheimer's/Dementia" + emergency contact.
    • ID card in wallet always.
    • Photo + medication list at home for police.
    • Recent photo (yearly update).
    • Iron-on labels in jackets/clothes with name + phone.

    Reduce wandering triggers

    • Daily routine — same wake/eat/bed times.
    • Address "lost" feelings calmly.
    • Daily exercise — reduces restlessness.
    • Avoid overstimulation (loud places, crowds).
    • Address basic needs — hungry, bathroom, tired.
    • Avoid asking "Why are you leaving?" — redirect gently.
    • "Sundowning" (late afternoon agitation) — distract with quiet activity.

    If they wander

    • Call 911 immediately. Don't wait.
    • Tell dispatcher: "dementia, vulnerable adult."
    • Provide recent photo.
    • Search nearby first (90% found within 1.5 miles).
    • Check water — they may head to known water bodies.
    • Have neighbor contacts ready.
    • Most found within 24 hours.

    Free Project Lifesaver

    Many counties offer FREE GPS bracelet for residents with dementia/autism/wandering. Police search uses radio tracker — finds in 30 min average. Call sheriff's office. Search "[your county] Project Lifesaver". Lifesaver.org has list.