Stopping Senior Elopement has Nothing to do with Wedding Bells

While the word "elopement" often conjures images of romance and spontaneous trips to Vegas, in senior care facilities, it carries a much more serious connotation. Wandering off, or elopement can lead to tragic accidents and dangerous situations. It is estimated that between 20,000 to 40,000 residents—primarily those living with forms of dementia—wander off each year, sometimes resulting in fatalities.

Numerous risk factors and situational circumstances contribute to this issue, but the most crucial actions senior living leaders can take are education and preparation. By focusing on these areas, facilities can enhance their ability to prevent elopement and protect their residents.

“Together, we can create safer environments where older adults can thrive while maintaining their dignity and autonomy.”

The key to successfully mitigating any emergency is preparedness. CHUG members have access to a comprehensive suite of educational workshops that utilize real-life case studies to teach effective responses to emergency situations. This training can be lifesaving.

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