Wandering is one of the most dangerous and scary issues associated with dementia.
You can decrease the chances of wandering by focusing on triggers and creating a safe environment. This can mean less stress, anxiety and fear for all.
Facts about wandering:
• It can happen in ANY stage of the disease.
• A person who has wandered once is at increased risk for it to happen again.
• The best wandering prevention is before a wandering incident ever occurs.
Causes, Triggers and Warning Signs for Wandering:
• Boredom, restlessness and a lack of physical activity.
• Frustration or anger with their caregiver, feeling the need to “get away” from them.
• Feeling that they need to “get home” though they are home.
• Not being able to find someone, something, or someplace.
• Trouble finding the bathroom and opening an exterior door.
• Delirium or confusion from a UTI or dehydration.
• A move to a new, unfamiliar location.
• A person who is high energy and constantly moving.
Wandering Prevention:
• Physical and mental activities throughout the day to prevent that bored and restless feeling.
• Be positive and reassuring so that you are not the reason they want to leave.
• If they say, “I want to go home,” be comforting and reassuring rather than telling them that they are home.
• Don’t leave them alone.
• Be sure their bodily needs are met – Are they hungry or thirsty? Do they need to use the toilet?
• Increase lighting. A shadowy house can feel unfamiliar.
• Put bathroom signs on the bathroom door.
• Put stop signs on the front door or cover them with a camouflage poster.
• Install barriers and alarms on doors and windows.
• Get a wearable GPS device.
• Let your neighbors know your family member is a wandering risk.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by Amy Kowinsky, Executive Director of Dementia360. Dementia360 is a Presbyterian SeniorCare Network support program for family caregivers of people living with dementia.
As the number of older adults living with Parkinsons disease and Alzheimers disease continues to grow, so does the demand for quality support services. Families in Northern Colorado are increasingly seeking trustworthy information and local resources to help manage these complex conditions.Whether you are newly navigating a diagnosis or have been caring for a loved one for years, knowing where to turn for support can make all the difference. In this guide, well explore the types of Parkinsons and Alzheimers support available in Northern Colorado and how to connect with local resources that provide compassionate, informed care. Understanding Parkinsons and AlzheimersParkinsons disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and often causes tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. Over time, it can also lead to cognitive challenges.Alzheimers disease is the most common form of dementia, marked by memory loss, confusion, and changes in thinking and behavior. While distinct, both conditions can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and their caregivers.Effective support involves more than just medical treatmentit also means access to the right programs, caregivers, and community networks. Why Local Support MattersLiving with a chronic neurological condition can be isolating. Thats why locally based support in Northern Colorado is so critical. Seniors and caregivers benefit from programs that understand the needs of the community, offer in-person resources, and provide easy access to care.From educational workshops to caregiver support groups and specialized therapies, the Northern Colorado region is home to a variety of services that make living with Parkinsons or Alzheimers more manageable.Explore Senior Resources in Northern Colorado Browse Alzheimers and Parkinsons Support Listings Types of Parkinsons and Alzheimers Support Available1. Support Groups for Patients and CaregiversSupport groups offer emotional connection, shared experiences, and practical advice. In Northern Colorado, youll find regular gatherings facilitated by local hospitals, senior centers, and nonprofits.2. Memory and Movement ClinicsThese clinics provide specialized care from neurologists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists, many of whom have advanced training in Parkinsons and dementia care.3. Cognitive and Physical Therapy ProgramsExercise and cognitive training have been shown to slow the progression of symptoms. Northern Colorado providers offer group and one-on-one sessions that focus on movement, memory, and daily living activities.4. Educational ResourcesEducational seminars and family training sessions are widely available and help caregivers better understand disease progression and care techniques.5. In-Home Support ServicesMany seniors in Northern Colorado prefer to age at home. In-home care options offer support with daily tasks, medication reminders, and companionshipall tailored to individuals with memory or mobility issues. How to Choose the Right Support in Northern ColoradoEvery familys situation is unique. When evaluating Parkinsons or Alzheimers support options, consider the following:Specialization Does the provider focus specifically on neurodegenerative conditions?Location and accessibility Is it easy for you or your loved one to attend?Accreditation and experience Are professionals certified or trained in dementia or Parkinsons care?Emotional support Are there programs that offer mental health and caregiver support?Most importantly, take time to visit local providers and ask questions. Getting a firsthand sense of the community can help guide your decisions. Final Thoughts: Finding Hope Through SupportLiving with Parkinsons or Alzheimers can be incredibly challenging, but no one needs to face it alone. The right supportwhether medical, emotional, or practicalcan empower seniors and their families to live more comfortably and with greater peace of mind. Northern Colorado is home to a growing number of resources dedicated to serving older adults with these conditions. From specialized care programs to warm and welcoming community groups, help is available and closer than you think.
When it comes to finding the right care for aging loved ones, senior placement services can make all the difference. In Northern Colorado, where the demand for senior care is on the rise, senior placement professionals offer invaluable assistance in navigating the complex world of senior housing options. Whether you're looking for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, understanding the senior placement process is key to making an informed decision.In this blog, we will discuss how senior placement services work, the benefits they offer, and how to find the best options in Northern Colorado. What Is Senior Placement?Senior placement services are designed to help families find appropriate housing and care options for their loved ones. These services are typically free for families because they are compensated by the senior care communities once a placement is made. Senior placement professionals specialize in understanding the needs of seniors and matching them with the right facilities, whether it's for independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing.The goal is to make the process of finding senior care as easy and stress-free as possible. This allows families to focus on the well-being of their loved ones rather than the overwhelming task of researching facilities and navigating the complexities of healthcare options. Why Should You Consider Senior Placement Services?Choosing the right care facility for an aging loved one can be an overwhelming process. With numerous options to consider, it's easy to become lost in the details. Senior placement services can alleviate this burden by providing the following benefits:1. Expert Knowledge of Available FacilitiesSenior placement professionals are experts in the senior care industry. They have in-depth knowledge of local communities, their services, and their reputation. In Northern Colorado, where there are many options, this expertise is invaluable when it comes to narrowing down the best choices based on your loved ones needs.2. Personalized RecommendationsEvery senior has unique needs. A placement professional will take the time to understand your loved ones specific health, social, and emotional needs, offering recommendations that are tailored to their requirements. This ensures that the facility you choose will provide the right level of care and a comfortable environment.3. Time-SavingThe search for senior housing can be time-consuming. Senior placement services streamline the process, saving you valuable time. Instead of spending hours researching and contacting facilities, a professional will do the legwork for you, presenting you with only the most suitable options.4. Emotional SupportMaking decisions about senior care can be an emotional experience. Senior placement services provide emotional support and guidance throughout the process. They help you navigate the difficult decisions and offer reassurance that you are making the best choice for your loved one.5. Cost-EfficientMany families are surprised to learn that senior placement services are typically free. Providers are compensated by the senior care communities once a placement is made. This means you get expert guidance at no cost to you. How to Find Senior Placement Services in Northern ColoradoNorthern Colorado is home to numerous senior care options, from Fort Collins and Loveland to Greeley and Longmont. Whether you're looking for independent living, assisted living, or more specialized care such as memory care, there are plenty of choices.When looking for senior placement services in the region, here are some key steps to consider:1. Research Local Senior Placement AgenciesLook for senior placement agencies in Northern Colorado that have good reviews and a proven track record. Many placement professionals specialize in the region and are familiar with the local senior care communities. Visit their websites or contact them directly to learn about the services they offer.You can find more information about local senior resources here: Senior Resources Directory - Northern Colorado2. Request a ConsultationMany senior placement agencies offer free consultations where they can assess your loved ones needs and discuss potential options. Use this time to ask questions about the services they offer and their experience in the area.3. Ask About the Placement ProcessIts important to understand how the senior placement service works. Ask about the steps involved, how they select care facilities, and the level of support you will receive throughout the process.4. Evaluate Potential Care CommunitiesOnce youve narrowed down potential facilities, take the time to visit them. Many placement services will arrange tours for you, so you can get a feel for the community, meet staff members, and ask any questions you have about the facilitys services and amenities.Explore senior placement options in Northern Colorado: Northern Colorado Senior Placement Directory Conclusion: Simplifying the Senior Care Search in Northern ColoradoThe process of finding the right senior care facility for your loved one can be overwhelming, but with the help of a senior placement professional, it doesn't have to be. Senior placement services in Northern Colorado offer expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and emotional support to help you make informed decisions with confidence. By partnering with a trusted senior placement service, youll have access to valuable resources and expert knowledge, making the journey to find the perfect care facility much smoother for you and your family.
As the population of older adults grows across the country, many families in Northern Colorado are exploring care options for loved ones facing Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. Memory care has become an essential support service for seniors experiencing cognitive decline, offering structure, safety, and compassionate care.In this article, well walk through what memory care is, why it matters, and how to explore options available in Northern Colorado. What Is Memory Care?Memory care is a specialized form of senior housing designed for individuals living with Alzheimers, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. These communities provide a safe, structured environment with trained staff available 24/7 to assist with daily tasks, manage behaviors, and support cognitive well-being.Unlike traditional assisted living, memory care programs are tailored specifically to meet the unique needs of individuals with memory impairments, often including:Secured environments to prevent wanderingDaily routines to reduce stress and confusionActivities and therapies that support memory retentionSpecially trained caregivers experienced in dementia care The Importance of Memory Care in Northern ColoradoChoosing memory care is more than just a healthcare decisionits a decision rooted in compassion and quality of life. Northern Colorado, with its blend of community-centered living, access to quality healthcare, and scenic surroundings, is a meaningful place to seek memory care support.Whether your family is based in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, or a surrounding town, youll find a growing number of memory care communities offering person-centered care approaches and a variety of services designed to enhance comfort, engagement, and dignity. Exploring Memory Care Options in Northern ColoradoNorthern Colorado offers a wide range of memory care communities, each with their own unique amenities, philosophies, and environments. While the specifics vary, many offer:Enclosed outdoor spaces for safe recreationSensory therapy roomsStructured daily programs to support routineOn-site nursing care and health monitoringFamily education and support resourcesTo begin exploring your options, visit our full directory of local providers: Browse Northern Colorado Senior Housing Options Explore Northern Colorado Memory Care Communities How to Choose the Right Memory Care CommunitySelecting a memory care community for a loved one is a deeply personal process. Here are a few things to consider during your search:Level of care needed: Does your loved one require help with daily tasks, or more advanced dementia care?Staff training and ratios: Look for communities with trained caregivers and a low resident-to-staff ratio.Environment: Is the setting calm, secure, and designed for those with memory impairments?Engagement: What activities, therapies, and support systems are offered?Transparency: Ask about communication with families, care planning, and response to behavioral changes.Take the time to tour communities in person, ask questions, and involve family members in the process. Its also important to consider how the environment aligns with your loved ones personality, values, and medical needs. Final Thoughts: Finding Support for Your Loved OneNavigating dementia care can be emotional and complexbut youre not alone. Memory care in Northern Colorado offers compassionate, expert support designed to meet seniors where they are and improve overall well-being. At Seniors Blue Book, were here to serve as a neutral and trusted resource. Use our platform to explore communities, compare services, and connect with organizations ready to help your family make the right choice.
Because Life Doesn't Prepare Anyone to be a Dementia Family CaregiverDiscover Peace of Mind: Dementia Caregiver Support Compassionate Help for Family CaregiversCaring for a loved one with Alzheimers disease or another form of dementia is one of the most profound and challenging roles a family member can undertake. The emotional, physical, and mental toll of dementia caregiving can be overwhelming, leaving many family caregivers feeling isolated, exhausted, and unsure of where to turn. Thats where the Dementia Caregiver Support Program from Presbyterian SeniorCare Network steps in offering family caregivers a reliable partner in care, education, and emotional support.Who Should EnrollNo matter where you are on the journey of caring for a family member with dementia, it's never too early or late to ask for help. Every person is impacted differently by dementia, ever caregiver faces different challenges. Finding answers and solutions is a very personal journey, a journey you do not have to go on alone. People typically join our program because they feel unprepared to properly support a loved one living with dementia, isolated or alone because of the challenges of providing care or getting through the day, increasingly stressed about the responsibility of providing care and know that the anxiety will grow as time passes, or scared because they are facing a new diagnosis and wanting to learn all they can so they can manage the disease as well as they can. Tailored Dementia Support for Pittsburgh Family CaregiversAt Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we understand that caring for someone with dementia goes beyond providing meals and managing medications it is about learning how to better manage the day to day of living with dementia and continue to do the things that make life worth living. Our Dementia Caregiver Support Program is designed specifically for family caregivers who would like to keep their loved ones at home living comfortably and safely for as long as possible, and have a life that is better because they have the knowledge, confidence, and support to be successful.As a caregiver, you dont have to navigate this journey alone. Our program is built around real-world challenges family caregivers face, offering evidence-based dementia education, compassionate peer connections, and practical resources that help caregivers and their loved ones lead more fulfilling lives.What Makes Our Dementia Caregiver Support Program Unique?Family caregivers in Pittsburgh who partner with Presbyterian SeniorCare Network gain access to a community of experienced professionals and fellow caregivers who understand the complexities of dementia care. Heres what sets our program apart:Personalized Support: Dementia impacts every family differently. Our caregiver support specialists take the time to understand your specific situation and offer coaching and support thats meaningful and applicable to your situationEducational Resources: Caregiving often comes with uncertainty. We offer comprehensive dementia care training and resources, empowering caregivers with proven strategies to manage difficult behaviors, reduce confusion, and create safe, supportive environmentsEmotional Well-Being for CaregiversCaring for someone with dementia can be emotionally draining. Our support program gives caregivers the tools to manage stress, avoid burnout, and maintain a healthy balance between caregiving and self-carePeer Connection and CommunityFamily caregivers often feel like theyre facing the challenges of dementia alone. Our program connects caregivers with peer support groups in the Pittsburgh area, offering a safe space to share experiences, swap caregiving tips, and build lasting friendships.Access to Presbyterian SeniorCare Networks Trusted Services: As part of our mission, caregivers gain access to a full continuum of trusted senior living options, dementia care services, and long-term care planning resources all designed to ease the caregiving journey.Why Pittsburgh Families Trust Presbyterian SeniorCare NetworkAs one of Western Pennsylvanias most respected providers of senior living and dementia care solutions, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is deeply rooted in the Pittsburgh community. Our Dementia Caregiver Support Program is not only built on years of compassionate service but also on research-backed best practices that prioritize the dignity and comfort of those living with Alzheimers and related dementias and their family caregivers.We know that quality dementia care starts with an empowered, supported caregiver. Whether youre providing care at home, considering senior living options, or facing tough decisions about long-term care, our program is here to help you make the best choices for your loved one.Join a Caregiving Community That Understands YouFamily caregivers of people with dementia face countless emotional and logistical decisions every day. With Presbyterian SeniorCare Network by your side, youll never have to walk that path alone. Our Dementia Caregiver Support Program is here to help you find strength, strategies, community, and peace of mind as you care for your loved one.Joining our support network means gaining a deeper understanding of dementia, improving your caregiving skills, and finding hope even in difficult moments. Whether your loved one is newly diagnosed or in the advanced stages of dementia, we meet you where you are and walk with you on the journey ahead.How to Get StartedIf youre a family caregiver in Pittsburgh looking for dementia caregiver resources, support groups, or senior living guidance, Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is your go-to partner for compassionate and informed help. We make it easy to start: Contact us directly to speak with a Caregiver Support Specialist. Explore our website for free resources and upcoming support events. Join a dementia caregiver support group and connect with others who understand your journey.Your Loved One Deserves the Best and So Do YouAt Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we believe that supporting family caregivers is one of the most powerful ways to improve the lives of people living with dementia. You give so much of yourself to your loved one let us give you the resources, community, and support you need to thrive.Dont wait until burnout strikes. Start building your caregiver support system today by reaching out to the compassionate team at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. Contact us to learn more about how our Dementia Caregiver Support Program can help your family.