Caregivers journey through experiences of people living with dementia and history of wandering behaviour

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionWandering is one of the major behavioural symptoms of dementia. It leads to the high level of caregiver burden. Understanding the caregivers’ difficulties and management strategies will help the mental health professionals to gain knowledge on feasible care techniques in India.AimAim of this study was to explore the experience of caregivers in the management of wandering among persons with dementia.MethodologyThree case studies were selected from the family caregiver population and who reported wandering behaviour and associated distress. Interview method was used to understand the experience of caregivers.ResultsAll caregivers used supervision and locking the doors of their houses as key strategies to prevent the wandering behaviour among the persons with dementia. Other prominent strategies were seeking community support and listing out the destinations in which the person is found commonly. Keeping an identity card, planned activities of daily living, restricted movement, safety planning and division of caregiving responsibility were also applied in management of wandering by family caregivers.ConclusionEarly identification of wandering behaviour and caregiver education can prevent the frequency of wandering and the associated burden. Low‐middle‐income countries are yet to develop a comprehensive case management services for the families affected by the wandering secondary to dementia.