Implementing the wandering evidence for older people with dementia: key issues for nurses and carers

Abstract

This paper explores and discusses key issues for nurses and home carers in implementing the evidence from the recent assessment of wandering studies conducted by Algase. Wandering is one of the most burdensome of all the behavioural symptoms and is increasing as the prevalence rates of dementia rise with the aging of the population. Wandering describes a diverse pattern of behaviour from aimless walking and pacing through to elopement. Until recently, the empirical evidence in relation to wandering and its implications for caring for older people, has seriously lagged behind other research. However, several studies have led to important advances in the management of wandering and despite there being in some instances methodological deficiencies and modest efficacy, nurses, home carers and older people who wander will benefit from the findings.