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American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias logoLink to American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias
. 2009 Jun-Jul;24(3):208–219. doi: 10.1177/1533317509332625

A Framework for Managing Wandering and Preventing Elopement

D Helen Moore 1, Donna L Algase 2, Gail Powell-Cope 3, Shawn Applegarth 4, Elizabeth R A Beattie 5
PMCID: PMC10846189  PMID: 19357378

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: A framework aids choice of interventions to manage wandering and prevent elopement in consideration of associated risks and mobility needs of wanderers. Design and Methods: A literature review, together with research results, published wandering tools, clinical reports, author clinical experience, and consensus-based judgments was used to build a decision-making framework. Results: Referencing a published definition of wandering and originating a clinical description of problematic wandering, authors introduce a framework comprising (1) wandering and related behaviors; (2) goals of wandering-specific care, (3) interpersonally, technologically, and policy-mediated wandering interventions, and (4) estimates of relative frequencies of wandering behaviors, magnitudes of elopement risk, and restrictiveness of strategies. Implications: Safeguarding wanderers from elopement risk is rendered person-centered and humane when goals of care guide intervention choice. Despite limitations, a reasoned, systematized approach to wandering management provides a basis for tailoring a specialized program of care. The need for framework refinement and related research is emphasized.

Keywords: dementia, elopement, risk, behavior management, technology

Full Text

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Contributor Information

D. Helen Moore, James A. Haley VAMC Tampa, Florida, Dorothy.Moore4@va.gov .

Donna L. Algase, Center on Frail and Vulnerable Elders, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Gail Powell-Cope, VARR&D Research Enhancement Award Program.

Shawn Applegarth, James A. Haley VAMC Tampa, Florida.

Elizabeth R. A. Beattie, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

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