How can we respond to the cognitively impaired person's desire to “go home”?
- Try to identify what emotions the person is trying to express (anxiety, fear, anxiety or other negative emotions) and respond appropriately (“I will help/take care of you” or “Are you feeling bored? Are you lonely? I'll keep you company!”)
- Try to identify why the person wants to “go home”.
- Remove any object that reminds the person to “go home”.
- Distract or redirect the person's attention to other activities. For example, try looking at old photos, reminiscing with the person about past events, or going for a walk with the person.
- Instead of fighting the patient's desire to “go home,” try to reassure the patient to ease his or her mind.
- Try to provide some reason, purpose or activity for the patient to stay where he is, such as a cup of tea or something he likes to eat.
