Fact 4: Potential Triggers – From Basic Needs to Environmental Factors
Understanding the potential triggers for wandering is crucial in formulating an effective response. In dementia, various factors ranging from basic needs to environmental influences can initiate this behavior.
Physical needs like hunger, thirst, or the need to use the restroom can trigger wandering. Similarly, medical conditions such as infections, pain, or medication side effects might also lead to wandering. By regularly addressing these physical needs and keeping up with medical check-ups, caregivers can help reduce the likelihood of wandering.
Environmental factors, too, can play a part. Overly noisy or crowded situations can cause agitation and trigger wandering. Sometimes, even the time of day can impact this behavior—sundowning, a phenomenon where confusion and agitation increase during late afternoon and evening in some people with dementia, can contribute to increased wandering.
Emotions and psychological needs are equally significant triggers. Feelings of stress, anxiety, or boredom can all lead to wandering. If a person with dementia feels lost, misunderstood, or not engaged, they might wander to cope with these emotions. (4)
