Building safe communities – Finding Your Way

Building safe communities for people with dementia

We all have an important role to play in making our communities safe for people with dementia. Please watch the video below on how you can contribute to creating a safe community for those living with dementia.

Would you know what to do if you came across someone in public who was lost or confused?

Take our quiz to see if you would know how to help.
Read on to learn how you can help, or sign up for our free Online Learning series today.

Watch Video

60 percent of people with dementia-related memory problems become lost at some point

For many people, getting lost happens without warning. Familiar surroundings may suddenly become strange to them. They get disoriented and are unable to find their way home.

Becoming lost isn’t just distressing; it can be dangerous. Half the people with dementia who go missing for 24 hours end up seriously injured or dead.

That’s why it’s so important that we offer assistance when we come across someone who seems lost or confused and for families to be prepared.

If you work directly with seniors or missing persons, this information is especially critical.

Know the signs

The person may be:

Inappropriately dressed for the weather
Standing still looking around for a long period of time
Pacing
Looking confused or disoriented
Repeating the same question or statement within a short period of time

Know what to say

Speak slowly and calmly
Loudness can convey anger; avoid the assumption that the person is hearing impaired
Use short, simple words
Ask “yes” and “no” questions
Ask one question at a time, allowing plenty of time for response. If necessary, repeat the same question using the exact wording
People with dementia may only understand a part of the question at a time

Know what to do

Approach the person from the front
Identify yourself and explain why you’ve approached the person
Maintain a calm environment
Move slowly; maintain eye contact
Avoid confrontation
Avoid correcting or “reality checks”
Call police (911) for help returning the person home safely
Wait with the person until the police arrive

When you find someone with dementia who is lost

Look for a body-worn blue MedicAlert Safe and Found bracelet
Read the vital information on the back of the bracelet