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Controlling the Risk of Wandering Residents

Residents with dementia or memory-related conditions may wander from assisted living or residential care facilities, creating serious safety risks and potential liability concerns. Since wandering can happen at any stage of dementia — often without warning — facilities should identify risk factors such as confusion, restlessness, or talking about going home or work.

To help prevent wandering, facilities can implement safety measures that comply with fire and emergency regulations, including door alarms, monitoring systems, security cameras, and visual distractions like scenic posters or stop signs near exits. Creating a calming, engaging environment with safe walking paths, activities, clear signage, and reduced clutter can also decrease wandering behavior.

Facilities should ensure residents who may wander are properly supervised and reassessed regularly to determine if they require a higher level of care. In cases where residents do leave the facility, identification bracelets, clothing labels, recent photos, and participation in local “Take Me Home” programs can improve the chances of a safe return.

Because facilities may face lawsuits if wandering leads to injury or death, proactive prevention strategies and proper insurance coverage are essential components of risk management.

Kyber Brokers is available to review your current insurance coverage, help you understand the strengths and potential gaps within your existing policy, and provide recommendations tailored to your facility’s unique needs. Our team can help you evaluate coverage options, identify opportunities to better protect your residents and organization, and support informed risk management decisions.

This article was adapted from content originally published by the Personal Care & Assisted Living Insurance Center (PCALIC) and Tangram Insurance Services. To read the full article, visit:  https://pcalic.com/controlling-the-risk-of-wandering-residents/

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