Caring for persons with dementia requires provider organizations to create tailored care delivery environments that enhance a person’s remaining capabilities while also supporting the special needs of a person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Some symptoms and behaviors associated with dementia also bring along clinical risks, which can lead to serious harm or even death. Hazardous wandering and elopement are two of those behaviors.
As described in ECRI’s white paper, Mismatched Needs and Services Can Lead to Harm: A Systems REThinking Approach, organizations should systematically evaluate the scope of services they offer to meet resident needs and determine their staffing, infrastructure, and technology needs to fulfill these obligations.
