{"id":17148,"date":"2025-07-10T08:00:36","date_gmt":"2025-07-10T08:00:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/?p=17148"},"modified":"2025-07-11T16:18:06","modified_gmt":"2025-07-11T16:18:06","slug":"wandering-dementia-memphis-tx","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/","title":{"rendered":"<strong>Safeguarding Seniors: A Memphis Guide to Dementia and Wandering<\/strong>"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Nothing tugs at your heartstrings quite like seeing a loved one with dementia struggle with confusion, and sometimes even wander away from home.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many families in Memphis, TN, it\u2019s a gut-wrenching fear that can turn daily life upside down.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of Memphis, we know just how daunting it feels when someone you love begins to wander. But there are steps we can take together to keep everyone safer and bring back some peace of mind!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you will learn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The common reasons seniors with dementia may wander and the warning signs to watch for in your loved ones.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Simple home safety tips, routines, and community resources that can help reduce risks and keep seniors safe.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>How to create a comforting, engaging, and inclusive atmosphere for seniors at home and with the help of professional memory care services.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#Why_Do_People_with_Dementia_Wander\" title=\"Why Do People with Dementia Wander?\">Why Do People with Dementia Wander?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#Warning_Signs_Is_Wandering_on_the_Horizon\" title=\"Warning Signs: Is Wandering on the Horizon?\">Warning Signs: Is Wandering on the Horizon?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#How_We_Can_Reduce_Wandering_Risks_Together\" title=\"How We Can Reduce Wandering Risks Together\">How We Can Reduce Wandering Risks Together<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#Memory_Care_When_Extra_Help_Makes_Sense\" title=\"Memory Care: When Extra Help Makes Sense\">Memory Care: When Extra Help Makes Sense<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/wandering-dementia-memphis-tx\/#Learn_How_to_Prevent_Wandering_and_Support_Loved_Ones\" title=\"Learn How to Prevent Wandering and Support Loved Ones!\">Learn How to Prevent Wandering and Support Loved Ones!<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Do_People_with_Dementia_Wander\"><\/span><strong>Why Do People with Dementia Wander?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/early-signs-dementia-memphis-tn\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wandering<\/a> is one of the trickiest challenges for anyone caring for someone with dementia. It isn\u2019t just about getting lost; it\u2019s about sudden urges fueled by anxiety or searching for something familiar that may not even exist anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Folks may start wandering because they:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Think they need to go somewhere<\/strong>, like heading off to work or picking up a child, habits deeply rooted from years gone by.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Feel restless or bored<\/strong>, itching for stimulation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Experience disorientation<\/strong>\u2014not knowing what day it is or where they are.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>React to noise or clutter<\/strong>, which can stir up agitation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Believe they&#8217;re looking for someone<\/strong> important who isn&#8217;t around.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What makes this tough? Most seniors don\u2019t realize they\u2019re putting themselves at risk or that anything is amiss at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/237-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"Three elderly individuals engage in a colorful block-stacking game at a table. One woman smiles at the camera, exuding joy and social interaction. The Always Best Care logo appears in the top left corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17151\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/237-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/237-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/237-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/237.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Warning_Signs_Is_Wandering_on_the_Horizon\"><\/span><strong>Warning Signs: Is Wandering on the Horizon?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not everyone living with dementia will decide to take an unexpected stroll down the street, but certain behaviors raise red flags:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Asking repeatedly if it&#8217;s time \u201cto go home\u201d (even if they&#8217;re already there).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Fixating on needing to be elsewhere.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Getting flustered in new settings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Struggling to recognize familiar faces or rooms.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pacing near exits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_We_Can_Reduce_Wandering_Risks_Together\"><\/span><strong>How We Can Reduce Wandering Risks Together<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Secure Home Sweet Home<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We suggest simple tweaks that make all the difference:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Install door alarms and motion sensors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use locks high out of reach (but never block emergency exits).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GPS trackers? Absolutely worth considering; they\u2019re lifesavers when seconds count!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/240-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A younger woman points to a calendar on the wall while assisting an older woman in a wheelchair who appears to be experiencing memory challenges. The Always Best Care logo is in the top right corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17154\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/240-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/240-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/240-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/240.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Stick to a Routine That Feels Right<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A little structure goes a long way toward soothing anxiety:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Scheduled meals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Regular walks around safe areas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engaging activities matched perfectly with your loved one&#8217;s interests.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Boredom breeds restlessness; activity brings comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cut Down On Confusion Triggers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Too much noise? Too many strangers popping by? These overloads can send anyone into a tailspin, especially those struggling with memory loss. Calm environments = calmer days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Meet Emotional Needs Head-On<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes folks simply want company, or something meaningful to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Play music from their younger years.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bring out old photo albums.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share stories over coffee.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping spirits bright means less temptation to wander off alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/239-1024x569.jpg\" alt=\"A caregiver in a purple uniform shares a warm moment with an elderly woman while looking at a photo album together. The Always Best Care logo is in the top left corner.\" class=\"wp-image-17153\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/239-1024x569.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/239-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/239-768x427.jpg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/101\/2025\/07\/239.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Use Visual Cues Around the House<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clear signage beats guesswork every time:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Labels on doors (\u201cBathroom,\u201d \u201cKitchen\u201d).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Color-coded tape marking hallways.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those little reminders help ground our loved ones right where they belong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Loop In the Neighborhood Watch<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t be shy! Let friendly neighbors know what&#8217;s going on so they&#8217;ll give you an early heads-up if anything seems off-course. Keep recent photos handy; it could make all the difference during an emergency search.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Memory_Care_When_Extra_Help_Makes_Sense\"><\/span><strong>Memory Care: When Extra Help Makes Sense<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes, <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/resources\/how-talk-parents-accept-help\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">home modifications aren\u2019t enough<\/a>, and that&#8217;s okay! There comes a point when keeping everyone safe might mean making big decisions about care environments designed specifically for those living with memory loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of Memphis:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Service Feature<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What It Means For You<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Round-the-clock supervision<\/td><td>Peace of mind any hour of day or night<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Carefully controlled entry and exit points<\/td><td>No accidental escapes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Personalized routines &amp; therapies<\/td><td>Tailored engagement keeps minds active<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Social opportunities galore<\/td><td>No more lonely afternoons<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How common is wandering among people living with dementia?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Wandering happens most often during mid-to-late stages, but it isn\u2019t universal; still, being proactive never hurts!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: Are there quick fixes once someone has started wandering regularly?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: No magic bullet here\u2014but securing exits promptly and sticking close emotionally help curb risky behavior fast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: Can technology really help track my loved one if they walk away unnoticed?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Yes! GPS devices these days are small yet mighty. They send location updates straight away, so searches start immediately should trouble arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Learn_How_to_Prevent_Wandering_and_Support_Loved_Ones\"><\/span><strong>Learn How to Prevent Wandering and Support Loved Ones!<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Facing dementia-related wandering head-on isn\u2019t easy; it takes grit plus lots of compassion (and maybe even a sense of humor now and then).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of Memphis, we stand shoulder to shoulder alongside local families, so no one feels alone facing these challenges. From smart-home upgrades right through transitioning into full-time memory care, we\u2019ve got your back each step forward because safety matters most when love leads our way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/contact\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Contact Always Best Care of Memphis<\/a> at <a href=\"tel:(901) 414-2388\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(901) 414-2388<\/a> to learn more and schedule your free consultation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how Memphis families can support seniors with dementia, prevent wandering, and access local resources for compassionate care in their community.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":17157,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[164],"tags":[418,419,420,421,422,423],"class_list":["post-17148","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dementia-care"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17148","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17148"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17148\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17157"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17148"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17148"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/memphis-east\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17148"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}