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Best Door Locks for Dementia Patients
Written by Haleigh Behrman
about the author
11 minute readLast updated March 9, 2023
Reviewed by Carol Bradley BursackCarol Bradley Bursack spent two decades as a primary caregiver to seven elders. She’s the author of Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories and a contributor to several other titles. Carol is a newspaper columnist, blogger, and writer. Learn more about her at mindingourelders.com.
If you’re caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia who has a tendency to wander, electronic door locks for dementia patients could be an excellent option to help keep them safe.
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Potential dangers of wandering
Older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia may experience feelings of confusion or disorientation, which can cause them to wander away from their home or caregiver in search of something familiar. As the disease progresses, the risk of wandering increases. Wandering can be dangerous and put seniors with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia at a greater risk for falls, fractures, and injuries, according to a study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. The unpredictability and risks that accompany wandering can cause significant stress for caregivers and family members. Installing a specialized dementia door lock is one of the easiest ways to keep your loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia from wandering outside or away from home.
Dementia door lock features
There are certain features you will want to look out for when shopping for dementia door locks. Before we look at some top-rated door locks for dementia patients, here’s a breakdown of a few of the key features you can expect to see in their descriptions. For safety reasons, a person living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia should never be locked in their home alone without a caregiver present.
- Two-way security locks the door from the inside and outside.
- Multiple user codes give multiple people unique access codes to unlock or lock the door.
- An automatic locking system goes into effect after 10 to 99 seconds and reduces the risk of forgetting to lock the door.
- Lock/unlock from anywhere lets you unlock or lock from your smartphone.
Top-rated door locks for dementia patients
Electronic door locks are a simple way to keep your doors secure. Some systems feature dual keypad locks, require access codes, and can be accessed remotely. Here are some of the top-rated door lock systems for all budgets and security needs. Some additional features include: This two-way door lock and other similar products can cost anywhere from $60-200.
Code-a-Key All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Door Lock
The Code-a-Key All-Weather Double Keypad Mechanical Keyless Latch Door Lock is one of the top door locks for dementia patients because it has a two-way security feature. A code is required to both enter and exit the home, which is especially helpful when trying to prevent wandering.- Independent code programming for each keypad
- Easy to recode
- No batteries required
- Keyless access
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OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock
The OrangeIOT Keyless Deadbolt Lock offers security and convenience with its key-free, illuminated number pad. The door lock’s aesthetic design complements all home décor styles, and its weather resistance and long-term durability maximize use.- Multiple user codes — up to 20 preset codes
- Automatic locking system that can set to engage after 10 to 99 seconds
- Easy installation
Schlage BE469ZP CAM 716 Connect Smart Deadbolt
The Schlage Smart Deadbolt has convenient features and is compatible with home automation systems, including Ring and SmartThings. The door lock is easy to install, and the backlit keypad illuminates blue when it’s dark out.- Lock/unlock from anywhere when paired with a Z-Wave security system
- Voice operated when paired with a compatible voice assistant
- Fingerprint-resistant touchscreen
- Multiple user access — up to 30 preset codes
- Built-in alarm senses and alerts
Sifely Keyless Entry Door Lock
Sifely’s Keyless Door Lock offers versatility and convenience for caregivers. This door lock is easy to install, can store 200 codes and 150 fingerprints, and — when connected to Sifely W-Fi Gateway — can remotely unlock and lock the door, generate codes, and check access logs.- Fingerprint
- Code
- Fob
- Smartphone
- Key
Jounjip Dual Keypad Combination Latch Door Lock
The Jounjip Dual Keypad Door Lock has the same two-way security feature as the first dementia door lock on the list. The double-sided lock can have two separate codes for each keypad, which offers an additional layer of security to help limit wandering.- Batteries not required
- Automatic locking system
- No keys required
- Easy to recode
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Other types of dementia door locks
While most of the door locks we covered above rely on keypads or keyless entry, other types of door locks may be a better fit for you and your loved one’s needs:
- A keyed door knob lock can be a good option for a caregiver who wants to seal off a room from a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other form of dementia.
- Door top locks sit on top of a door frame, can be locked from the inside and outside, and provide a solution for caregivers who are worried about their loved ones wandering outdoors.
- Door reinforcement locks bring additional protection against burglars, but they can also be an effective solution for dementia patients who demonstrate aggressive behavior.
- Door lever locks are easy to install and can be placed on either side of the door. This type of lock can prevent a dementia patient from wandering outside when the lock is installed on the outer side of the door.
- Baby safety door knob covers add an additional safety layer by preventing the doorknob from rotating, which can help keep your loved one from entering certain rooms.
Keep your loved ones safe and protected
Six out of 10 individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia will wander at least once, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. If you’re a caregiver, your loved one’s safety is a top concern, and there are a number of ways you can help protect them around the home as they age. Utilizing safety measures like door locks can help you avoid the risks of wandering, but they can also be part of a solid emergency plan. Different actions you might consider to devising an emergency plan could include: Memory care is another option when considering how to manage wandering. Memory care units are equipped to provide 24-hour supervised care and are designed to minimize the chances of wandering. If you decide to explore this option, Senior Care Advisors can help connect you with memory care communities in your area and answer any questions you may have.
- Enrolling your loved one in a wandering response service
- Creating a list of places they might seek while wandering
- Keeping a recent, close-up photograph of your relative on your phone or in a convenient location
- Asking friends, family, and neighbors ahead of time to call you if they see your loved one wandering
References
Alzheimer’s Association. Wandering.
Lai, C. Arthur, D. (2003, October 02). Wandering behavior in people with dementia. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 44(2),173-82.
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