As summer temperatures soar in Southern Nevada, individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia face increased risk—especially when wandering occurs.
Wandering happens when someone with dementia becomes disoriented and walks away from home or a safe place. It can happen at any stage of the disease and may be triggered by confusion, anxiety, or the desire to fulfill past responsibilities like going to work.
More than 6 in 10 people living with dementia will wander at least once—many more than once. In the heat, this can quickly become life-threatening.
High heat increases the risk of dehydration, sunstroke, and confusion. A person may leave home underdressed or without water—and may not realize they’re in danger.
Key Warning Signs:
1. Talking about going home (even when already there)
2. Restlessness, pacing, or repetitive movements
3. Forgetting familiar routes
4. Appearing lost in known or new settings
5. Asking about past jobs or people
6. Acting out tasks but not completing them
Prevention Tips for Caregivers:
1. Avoid crowded or confusing places like malls or airports
2. Keep basic needs like food, fluids, bathroom access
3. Create a calm, structured daily routine with meaningful activities
4. Use medical ID bracelets or GPS tracking devices
5. Install door alarms, camouflage doors, or use pressure mats
6. Store keys, shoes, and bags out of sight to reduce triggers
7. Identify patterns: Wandering often happens during sundowning (late afternoon/evening)
Emergency Prep:
1. Keep a recent photo and an unwashed article of clothing for scent-tracking
2. Complete a safety questionnaire containing key information
3. Share safety plans with neighbors, family, and local first responders
4. If someone goes missing, search immediately and call 911 within 15 minutes
Who Can Help? Red Rock Search and Rescue (RRSAR) is a volunteer team in Southern Nevada that helps locate missing persons—many with dementia. Their trained team works with families and law enforcement to bring loved ones home safely.
Get More Help: Visit alz.org/safety for tools, tips, and free resources.
