Wander Management: Enhancing Safety with Wanderguard and RTLS Solutions for the Best Elopement Prevention

 

In healthcare facilities, senior care centers, and memory care units, patient and resident safety is a top priority. One of the biggest challenges is managing wandering and elopement risks—especially for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or cognitive impairments. Effective wander management solutions like Wanderguard and Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) provide reliable monitoring and prevention, ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.

Understanding Wander Management and Elopement Risks

Wandering is a common behavior in individuals with cognitive impairments, often leading to elopement—unauthorized exits that can result in injury or worse. Facilities must implement proactive measures to prevent such incidents while respecting residents' dignity and independence.

Key Risks of Unmanaged Wandering:

·         Increased risk of falls, injuries, or getting lost

·         Exposure to harsh weather or unsafe environments

·         Legal and liability concerns for care facilities

·         Emotional distress for families and caregivers

Wanderguard: A Leading Wander Management Solution

Wanderguard is a specialized elopement prevention system designed to monitor and alert staff when a resident approaches an exit. It uses wearable devices (such as wristbands or pendants) that trigger alarms when they breach pre-set safe zones.

Key Features of Wanderguard:

✔ Door Monitoring Sensors – Alerts staff when a resident nears an exit
✔ Discreet Wearable Tags – Comfortable and tamper-resistant
✔ Instant Alarms & Notifications – Ensures quick response
✔ Integration with Security Systems – Works with existing facility infrastructure

RTLS (Real-Time Location Systems) for Enhanced Safety

While Wanderguard focuses on exit monitoring, RTLS solutions provide real-time tracking of residents within a facility. These systems use RFID, Bluetooth, or GPS technology to monitor movements, helping staff locate individuals quickly.

Benefits of RTLS in Wander Management:

📍 Real-Time Location Tracking – Know a resident’s exact location at all times
📍 Geofencing& Safe Zones – Alerts when residents enter restricted areas
📍 Historical Data & Reporting – Helps analyze wandering patterns
📍 Scalability – Suitable for large facilities like hospitals and nursing homes

Why Choose Wanderguard& RTLS for Elopement Prevention?

Combining Wanderguard and RTLS offers the best elopement prevention strategy, providing dual-layer security:

1.      Preventive Alarms (Wanderguard stops exits before they happen)

2.      Active Tracking (RTLS ensures quick recovery if a resident wanders)

Industries That Benefit from These Solutions:

·         Hospitals & Healthcare Facilities

·         Memory Care & Alzheimer’s Units

·         Assisted Living & Nursing Homes

·         Psychiatric &Behavioral Health Centers

Conclusion

Effective wander management is crucial for safeguarding at-risk individuals. Wanderguard and RTLS solutions provide the best elopement prevention, combining exit monitoring and real-time tracking for maximum safety. By investing in these technologies, care facilities can reduce risks, improve response times, and enhance resident well-being.

Is your facility equipped to handle wandering and elopement risks? Explore Wanderguard and RTLS solutions today to ensure a safer environment for your residents!