Creating a Safe Space: Devices and Home Modifications to Support Kids with Elopement Tendencies

For families navigating the challenges of elopement, creating a secure and predictable environment is key. Thankfully, there are various devices and home modifications available that offer an extra layer of safety and peace of mind. As you explore which tools might help, keep in mind they work best as part of a comprehensive plan. Understanding the reasons behind a child’s elopement behavior, using behavioral supports, and working closely with therapists and certified professionals can greatly improve outcomes.

Technology and Devices for Added Safety:

• GPS Tracking Devices: These small, wearable devices (often disguised as watches, bracelets, or even sewn into clothing) can provide real-time location information. This can be invaluable when a child elopes, allowing caregivers to quickly locate them.

  • Considerations: Comfort for the child, battery life, reliability of the GPS signal, and privacy concerns.

    
    

• Door and Window Alarms: These simple devices emit a loud sound when a door or window is opened. They provide immediate feedback when  a child attempts to leave the home unexpectedly.

  • Considerations: Ease of installation, volume of the alarm, and ensuring all potential exit points are covered.

    
    

• Wearable Alert Systems: Some devices can be programmed to send an alert to a caregiver's phone or a monitoring service when the child moves beyond a designated safe zone.

  • Considerations: Range of the device, reliability of the connection, and the child's willingness to wear it.

    
    

• Smart Home Integration:  Integrating door and window sensors with a smart home system enables instant alerts to be sent to your phone. This allows you to respond quickly by locking doors remotely, checking live camera feeds, alerting a caregiver, or contacting emergency services if needed.

  • Considerations: Compatibility with existing smart home devices and the technical expertise required for setup and maintenance.

Home Modifications for a Secure Environment:

• Secure Fencing and Gates: Installing a tall, secure fence around the yard with self-latching and locking gates can prevent wandering.

  • Considerations: Latch placement relative to child’s height, and local regulations regarding fence height and materials. Many neighborhoods have rules regarding fences, this is also something to consider when looking for a new home.

    
    

• Child-Proof Locks and Latches: Using child-proof locks on doors (especially exterior doors) and windows can make it more difficult for a child to open them independently. Options include high-mounted deadbolts, chain locks, and specialized child safety latches.

  • Considerations: Ensuring  everyone in the home can quickly and easily exit in case of an emergency.

    
    

• Window Guards and Stops: These devices prevent windows from being opened wide enough for a child to climb through.

  • Considerations: Ensuring they can be readily removed by adults in case of a fire or other emergency.

    
    

• Visual Cues and Boundaries: Clearly defined visual boundaries within the home, such as colored tape on the floor or designated "safe zones," can help some children understand where they are expected to stay.

  • Considerations: Consistency in using and reinforcing these boundaries.

    
    

• Securing Hazardous Areas: Ensuring that potentially dangerous areas like garages, basements, or areas with cleaning supplies are securely locked and inaccessible.

  • Considerations: Ease of regular access by adults, ongoing safety checks, and clear labeling and visual cues such as warning signs.

    
    

• Creating Alternate Environments: Elopement can be triggered by sensory overload or  the need for a calming space. Creating a designated area can help reduce the urge to wander.

  • Considerations: Noise level of the area, brightness of the lighting, and inclusion of comfortable seating and preferred sensory items.

Choosing the Right Solutions:

The best devices and home modifications will depend on the individual child's needs, abilities, and the specific circumstances. It's recommended to:

• Consult with Professionals: Occupational therapists, behavioral therapists, home modification specialists (preferably with Certified Aging in Place Specialist, CAPS training) and other experts can offer personalized recommendations based on their assessment of the child's elopement behavior and the needs/wants of the caregivers.

• Consider the Child's Input: If the child is able to understand, involve them in the process of choosing and using devices,  and selecting home modifications. This can increase their cooperation.

• Prioritize Safety and Functionality: Choose options that are both effective in preventing elopement and practical for daily life.

• Regularly Review and Adapt: As a child grows and their needs change, plan to periodically review how the devices and modifications continue to meet your family’s needs. When necessary, review your options and select new modifications to optimize your child’s safety.

Creating a safe and supportive environment is a crucial step in addressing elopement. If you are currently working with a Medicaid provider and want to explore available options, contact your case management team and ask about their home modification waiver. If you are not currently receiving Medicaid and are looking to improve the environmental safety of your child, Koremen can help. Visit us at www.kormenllc.com or contact us at (317) 218-3997.