Wandering is a common behavior among people living with dementia. While it can sometimes cause safety concerns, wandering also has positive aspects—it can help individuals stay active, reduce restlessness, and promote independence. The key is to support wandering in a safe and meaningful way.
That’s where the CARES® Approach comes in. CARES is a simple, person-centered framework that helps caregivers connect with individuals, understand their behaviors, and respond in ways that promote dignity, safety, and well-being.
Here’s how it works:
C – Connect with the Person
The first step in the CARES® Approach is to connect with the person. Taking time to build trust and establish a human connection helps encourage safe wandering and reduces feelings of confusion or distress.
A – Assess Behavior
Next, carefully assess behavior. Observe the person with dementia closely—when, where, and how often are they wandering? Are there specific triggers, such as time of day, routine changes, or environmental cues? Recognizing patterns helps you understand their needs and intentions, making it easier to guide them safely.
R – Respond Appropriately
The third step is to respond appropriately. Use what you know about the individual, combined with your observations, to address their needs in a supportive and respectful way. Your response should reduce risk while honoring their independence and dignity.
E – Evaluate What Works for Safe Wandering
The fourth step is to evaluate what works. Pay attention to which approaches are effective in supporting safe wandering and which are not. Continuous reflection helps improve care and ensures strategies remain person-centered.
S – Share with Others
Finally, share with others. Communicate your observations, successful strategies, and challenges with colleagues, family members, and the care team. Sharing ensures consistency, strengthens teamwork, and provides the best support for the person with dementia.
Conclusion
Wandering doesn’t always need to be prevented—it can often be supported in ways that bring comfort, activity, and purpose to people with dementia. By using the CARES® Approach, caregivers can create safe environments, reduce risks, and help individuals live with dignity and independence.
Safe wandering isn’t just about managing behavior—it’s about seeing the whole person, honoring their needs, and walking alongside them with compassion.
Get 10% off on CARES® training and learn step-by-step strategies to support safe wandering using the CARES® Approach. Use code Halloween10 by November 15, 2025.