Medically Reviewed by: Dr Jackie Gray, Public Health Expert and Retired GP
(Carents Trusted Reviewer Programme – Last reviewed January 2026)
Why People With Dementia Walk and Why It Worries Families
Many adults living with dementia go for walks. This is often described as wandering, but many families find that word misleading and unhelpful.
In reality, people with dementia are often walking with purpose. They may be trying to get home, find someone they remember, stick to a familiar routine, or respond to a strong memory or feeling.
For carents, this can be one of the most worrying parts of dementia. Someone leaving the house and not returning when expected can quickly turn into panic, especially if it is dark, cold, or they are not dressed for the weather.
Understanding why someone wants to go out can help. It may allow you to find safer ways to meet the same need, or reduce the chance of them becoming lost or distressed.
The Herbert Protocol, What It Is and Why It Matters When Someone With Dementia Goes Missing
The Herbert Protocol is a scheme the police use to help find people more quickly when they go missing. It is especially important for people with dementia who walk and may not be able to find their way back.
If someone goes missing, contact the police straight away. If you believe they are at immediate risk, call 999. Tell the call handler if you have a Herbert Protocol form ready.
The scheme is named after George Herbert, a war veteran with dementia who died after going missing while trying to reach his childhood home. His story led to a national effort to help emergency services respond faster.
The Herbert Protocol form contains practical information that police need straight away. Having it ready can save vital time.
A recent photograph should always be kept with the form.
How to Use the Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol form is completed in advance, usually by a carer or family member.
You can download it from your local police force website.
Once completed:
- Keep copies somewhere easy to find.
- Share copies with trusted family, friends, or neighbours.
- Only give it to the police if the person goes missing.
The form includes:
- A clear physical description
- A recent photograph
- Medical information
- Places they are drawn to or usual walking routes
- Emergency contacts
This information helps the police act quickly and increases the chance of a safe return.
Some police forces also offer GPS tracking devices for people at high risk.
How to Get and Store a Herbert Protocol Form
You can complete a Herbert Protocol form in more than one way, and there is no single “right” option.
Some people download a paper form from their local police force website and keep copies themselves. Others prefer to complete the form online.
There is a national Herbert Protocol website where you can fill in the form and store it digitally. This service is supported by MedicAlert, who provide the secure system used by police and emergency services in the UK.
Using this online service allows you to:
- Complete a Herbert Protocol form online
- Store the information securely in one place
- Make it accessible to emergency services if it is ever needed
- Do this free of charge
To use the online system, you do need to register. Using MedicAlert is optional. If you would rather not store the information online, you can still complete a paper form, keep copies at home, and share them with trusted family members or neighbours.
Many carers put off completing the Herbert Protocol because it can feel like tempting fate. Most people who fill it in never need to use it, but when it is needed, having the information ready can save precious time and reduce stress in a frightening moment.
Dementia Walking at Night, Why It Happens and How to Cope
Night-time walking can be particularly distressing. Poor sleep, confusion about time, and fear can all trigger someone to leave bed and try to go out.
Simple changes can help:
- Keep lighting low but clear
- Reduce noise and stimulation before bed
- Offer reassurance rather than correction
If night-time walking is increasing, speak to a GP or dementia specialist. It may be linked to pain, medication, or anxiety that can be treated.
How to Reduce the Risk When Someone With Dementia Walks
There are practical steps you can take to lower risk while still respecting independence.
- Try to understand the purpose of why they want to go out. Is it habit, boredom, anxiety, trying to find someone?
- Consider safety technology, as found in our guide, such as:
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Door sensors
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Personal alarms
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Boundary alarms
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Tracking devices (some police forces offer GPS trackers)
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If they use a mobile phone, add emergency contact details to the lock screen and enable location sharing.
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If they do not use a phone, make sure they carry contact details in a pocket or wallet.
Planning ahead does not mean locking someone in or taking away freedom. It is about reducing harm and stress for everyone involved.
Support is available through organisations like Dementia UK and your local police service.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT OUR CARENTS SAY
Medically reviewed by Dr Jackie Gray, January 2026
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