Moving a loved one into a nursing home is often a difficult decision, and it comes with a deep responsibility to monitor their safety. Although many facilities offer dedicated care, incidents such as wandering or elopement can still occur. These behaviors, particularly among individuals with dementia, can lead to dangerous outcomes if not addressed early and thoroughly.
Wandering typically involves aimless movement within the facility, while elopement refers to a resident exiting the premises unsupervised. Both situations place the individual at risk of harm. Understanding how to reduce these risks can help you take meaningful steps to protect your family member.
Actions you can take to enhance nursing home safety
There are several proactive measures you can take to promote your loved one’s safety and reduce the chances of wandering or elopement.
- Evaluate the facility’s safety protocols: Tour the nursing home to assess how it manages security. Ask about alarms on exits, staff monitoring routines and how they respond to missing persons. Observe if hallways are clearly labeled and whether staff seem attentive to residents’ movements.
- Understand your loved one’s habits and triggers: Speak with the care team to share your loved one’s routines, past behaviors and any patterns you have observed. Knowing what causes distress or confusion can help staff tailor interventions and prevent aimless or unsafe wandering.
- Confirm adequate staffing and staff training: Proper supervision depends on staffing levels and the quality of training. Facilities with trained personnel who understand memory care and elopement prevention are better equipped to intervene quickly and appropriately when risks arise.
- Stay engaged and communicate regularly: Visit consistently and maintain open communication with staff. This helps reinforce accountability and lets your loved one know they are supported. Frequent check-ins can also help you identify early signs of disorientation or changes in behavior.
If your loved one has been harmed due to inadequate supervision or neglect, legal guidance can help you explore available options for addressing the situation and seeking compensation.