A framework for managing wandering and preventing elopement.
OBJECTIVE
A framework aids choice of interventions to manage wandering and prevent elopement in consideration of associated risks and mobility needs of wanderers.


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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Moore
D Helen
DH
James A. Haley VAMC Tampa, Florida 33637, USA. Dorothy.Moore4@va.gov
Algase
Donna L
DL
Powell-Cope
Gail
G
Applegarth
Shawn
S
Beattie
Elizabeth R A
ER
D001107:Architectural Accessibility; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000379:methods; D017028:Caregivers; D003704:Dementia / Q000523:psychology*; D006272:Health Facility Environment; D006801:Humans; D011998:Recreation; D012054:Reinforcement, Psychology; D055816:Wandering Behavior