Caring for a loved one or resident with dementia presents many challenges—but few are as urgent or dangerous as wandering and exit seeking. These behaviors are not just stressful for caregivers—they can also lead to life-threatening situations if a person becomes lost, injured, or exposed to unsafe environments.
What Is Wandering?
Wandering is a common behavior among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It refers to aimless or purposeful movement that can place the person in harm’s way—especially when it involves leaving a safe space. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander at some point. Many do so repeatedly.
“Anyone who has memory problems and is able to walk is at risk for wandering.”
— Alzheimer’s Association, 2024
What Is Exit Seeking?
Exit seeking is a form of wandering that involves attempts to leave a building or secured area, often with urgency or distress. Unlike general wandering, this behavior is goal-oriented—for example, a person may believe they need to “go home,” pick up a child, or go to work—even if those responsibilities are long in the past.
Common triggers include:
- Confusion about time and place
- Environmental cues, such as seeing coats near a door
- Emotional distress, such as loneliness or boredom
- Changes in routine or unfamiliar settings
Why It Matters
Wandering and exit seeking can result in:
- Injury or death due to traffic, weather exposure, falls, or dehydration
- Police involvement and high-stress search efforts
- Severe caregiver distress and increased risk of burnout
According to a study published in American Family Physician, 5% of dementia-related deaths are directly related to wandering incidents (Rowe & Glover, 2001). That number is likely underreported.
How NCCDP Helps
At the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners, we prepare caregivers and professionals to anticipate and manage exit-seeking behavior through our Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) and CADDCT trainer programs. Our curriculum teaches:
- Early detection signs and behavior patterns
- De-escalation techniques and redirection strategies
- Environmental design tips, such as camouflaging exit doors or using motion sensors
- Personalized care approaches that reduce agitation and restlessness
“Prevention starts with understanding a person’s history, triggers, and unmet needs. Our dementia training equips caregivers with tools to act before a crisis happens.”
— Jason Stutz, Director of Operations, NCCDP
Practical Tips for Caregivers
Whether you are a family caregiver or a healthcare professional, these strategies can help:
- Secure the environment
Use door alarms, childproof locks, or sensors in high-risk areas. - Create daily structure
Routines reduce confusion and restlessness. - Provide purposeful activity
Engagement decreases boredom—a key trigger for wandering. - Label or disguise exits
A mural or curtain over a door can reduce the urge to leave. - Consider wearable ID
A medical ID bracelet or GPS tracker can be lifesaving.
Get Certified. Get Prepared.
With the right training, caregivers can feel confident—not fearful—when facing behaviors like wandering and exit seeking. Learn more about our CDP certification and training opportunities at www.nccdp.org.
