Disorientation and getting lost
Due to the physical changes to the brain that are caused by dementia, sometimes people living with dementia become disoriented, even in familiar places. This section provides information and a link to our guide on disorientation and getting lost.
The Alzheimer Society of B.C. can assist people living with dementia and their families to explore a variety of practical strategies to minimize the risk of getting lost and to be prepared if an incident does occur. Contact your local Alzheimer Resource Centre or the First Link® Dementia Helpline at 1-800-936-6033.
Why is this important?
People living with dementia tell us that their independence matters to them and that getting out and about, sometimes alone, is an important part of maintaining an active and independent lifestyle after a diagnosis of dementia.
There is a risk of becoming lost at any stage of the dementia journey. Even if you are not currently experiencing disorientation, you may want to learn more about what wandering, a symptom of dementia, can look like and put some safety strategies in place for the future.
Disorientation and getting lost: A guide for people living with dementia
The Alzheimer Society of B.C.’s resource Disorientation and getting lost: A guide for people living with dementia can help you and your support network explore a variety of practical strategies to minimize the risk of getting lost and to be prepared if an incident does occur.
Disorientation and getting lost: A guide for people living with dementia (fill in online and print)
Instructions for use: Once you have opened the document, go to “File” and select “Save as” to save it on your computer. This will allow you to continue adding and editing information. To write directly in the PDF, use the cursor to click on a section with lines. This will open a text box where you can type in your answer.
Print version
Disorientation and getting lost: A guide for people living with dementia (print and fill in by hand)