Have You Ever Been Lost in the Woods?

Do you remember the feeling?

I do. I was deep in the Grand Tetons, surrounded by snow covered towering trees. It was beautiful but unfamiliar terrain. For a moment, nothing looked right. My map suddenly felt useless—I couldn’t match what I saw to where I thought I should be. A wave of panic rose as I realized I wasn’t sure which way to go. Then, I heard it: the distant sound of rushing water. I took a breath, listened carefully, and followed it. By finding the river, I could locate myself on my topographical map and regain my sense of direction.But what if that feeling of being lost never faded?

For people living with dementia, disorientation isn’t just a passing moment—it can become their daily reality. Familiar faces, places, and routines can suddenly seem foreign. Unlike being lost in the woods, there’s no clear map back. Instead, they rely on the patience and kindness of those around them.

Dementia is more common than many realize. According to a study in Nature, by 2060, researchers estimate that one million Americans will develop it every year. But there’s hope: The decades between 55 and 75 are a critical window for brain health. Small changes can help reduce risk:

🧠 Stay social → Host dinner parties and puzzle nights

🏋️‍♂️ Move your body → Lift weights, Practice yoga, Go for a walk

📝 Challenge your mind → Do brain games, Learn a language

Yet, for those already living with dementia, there’s a critical concern: wandering.

Wandering: How to Keep Loved Ones Safe6 in 10 people with dementia will wander. If not found within 24 hours, the risk of serious harm increases dramatically. Here’s how to help:

Secure the Home:

• Use deadbolts (placed higher, out of sight) and door alarms.

• Keep keys, wallets, and coats out of view to reduce triggers.

Plan Ahead:

• Enroll in a wandering response service ex. Medialert.org/alz

• Notify neighbors, local businesses to call if they see them wandering

• Keep a recent photo handy and identify risky areas nearby.

Act Fast if Wandering Occurs:

• Search immediately—most are found within 1.5 miles.

• When looking, consider whether the individual is right- or left-handed (wandering patterns generally follow the direction of the dominant hand).

• Check fences, tree lines, and water sources.

• If not found in 15 minutes, call 911.

If you’ve ever been lost, you know how unsettling it feels. Imagine living with that every day. Through awareness, prevention, and compassion, we can all play a part in making the journey easier.