LightBridge

My father is wandering off all the time. I'm worried that one of these times we won't be able to find him. I'm looking for ideas on how to try and prevent this...

The Alzheimer Association has a "Safe Return" program that you can register your father with. Here's the website - hopefully you will get some peace of mind.
http://www.alz.org/we_can_help_safe_return.asp

I think it is very important to look at the possible reasons that someone might be wandering. For instance, is there an unmet need such as thirst or pain that could be prompting the wandering? Or could that person be bored and looking for adventure? Finally, it could simply be the disease and taking more meaningful walks with the person may be beneficial....

You can try changing the locks on your doors so that they require keys to open from the inside as well as the outside. Then keep the keys hidden.

Bolts that requires keys are a good idea. Also, it may help to camoflauge the doorknob or change the location of the lock. Because opening a door is an overlearned activity, sometimes changing altering the doorknob or lock can stop a person with Alzheimer's from leaving depending on their level of functioning. For example, try placing a piece of cloth or paper of similar color over the doorknob. Or place the only functional lock high or low on the door. These changes may be enough to prevent the person from opening the door.

Sometimes simple things like signs or familiar objects on doors can be helpful. If you want the person to use a door, place familiar objects on the door to indicate that that door is safe and okay to use. If you don't want the person to use that door, try a sign such as, "Please do not open this door."

This information is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice, read more at: http://www.lightbridgehealthcare.com/2838.xml