In plain English
Walking about and getting lost is one of the more concerning symptoms in dementia. It is rarely purposeless from the person's view. Practical strategies, including GPS locators and the Herbert Protocol, support safer outings.
Why people walk about
The term "wandering" can imply aimlessness, but most walking about in dementia has a purpose from the person's perspective:
- Looking for someone (often a long-deceased parent, or children when young);
- Trying to go to a previous home, sometimes from decades ago;
- Responding to a perceived need to "go to work" or pick up children;
- Physical restlessness from medication, pain, constipation or boredom;
- Anxiety driving movement;
- Misinterpretation of the environment (mistaking a window for a door);
- Sundowning agitation.
Understanding the underlying driver guides the response.
Reducing the risk
Inside the home
- Daytime activity programme to reduce restlessness;
- Music, gentle exercise, meaningful occupation;
- Late-afternoon light to reduce sundowning;
- Door alarms (chimes, motion sensors);
- Locks placed out of the usual line of sight (high or low on the door);
- Avoid making escape routes obvious (a door curtain can help).
Outside the home
- Plan accompanied outings;
- Identification card and address tag;
- GPS locator device (keyring, watch, shoe insert);
- Register with the Herbert Protocol;
- Tell neighbours;
- Photograph the person regularly in their usual clothes.
The Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a free UK police-run scheme that allows families to pre-register key information for a person with dementia. The form covers:
- Photograph and physical description;
- Medication and conditions;
- Places the person may go (former addresses, favourite locations);
- People they may try to find;
- Contact details.
If the person goes missing, the form is handed to the police, who can search known locations immediately. The protocol is supported by every UK police force; download the form from your local force website.
GPS locator devices
A wide range of GPS locators is available:
- Discreet keyrings;
- Watches and bracelets;
- Shoe inserts;
- Smartphone apps (where the person carries a phone);
- Pendants integrated with telecare.
Battery life, ease of charging, and the discreet appearance matter. Some local authorities subsidise locator devices through telecare or assistive technology services.
If someone goes missing
- Search the immediate area (often the person is nearby);
- Check known places they may go (former addresses, favourite walks, places of worship);
- Call 999 promptly; do not wait. The Herbert Protocol applies from the first call;
- Provide a recent photograph and a description of clothing;
- Ask neighbours and the local community to look;
- Stay reachable on the phone.
Most people with dementia who go missing are found within hours. The first few hours are the most important; do not delay calling the police.
When walking is welcome
For people in mild dementia who walk independently and safely, the physical activity, social contact and routine are all valuable. Reduce risk with the practical strategies above rather than restricting movement unnecessarily.
Frequently asked questions
Should I lock my parent in the house?
Locked doors can prevent harm but also feel imprisoning and may breach the Mental Capacity Act if used as restraint. Discreet alarms, locator devices and pre-planned outings are usually preferable. Discuss with your local memory team or social services if locking seems necessary.
Is a GPS locator legal?
Yes, where the person agrees while capacity allows. If capacity is impaired, a best-interests decision under the Mental Capacity Act applies. Most families find devices a proportionate measure.
Does the Herbert Protocol cost anything?
No. The scheme is free. Download the form from your local police force website and keep it accessible.
Can technology stop someone leaving?
Door alarms and exit sensors are widely used. They do not physically stop a person but alert family or carer that the door has been opened.
Is walking out a sign of decline?
Walking about often begins in moderate dementia. It does not always indicate sudden decline; it may reflect changing patterns of need, environment or routine.
References
- Alzheimer's Society. Walking about and dementia.
- Herbert Protocol (multiple UK police force websites).
- Dementia UK. Wandering or walking with purpose.
- Mental Capacity Act 2005.