Elopement, often referred to as wandering, describes a concerning behavior where an individual leaves a safe or supervised area without permission. For families of autistic individuals, this behavior presents a serious safety concern. This behavior can be unpredictable, occurring in various settings and at unexpected times, creating considerable stress for caregivers.
Defining Elopement in Autism
In the context of autism, elopement specifically means an individual, typically a child, running or wandering away from a caregiver or a secure location without permission or proper supervision. This differs from general wandering because it involves an intent to leave a monitored environment, often to pursue a specific interest or escape an uncomfortable situation. Elopement can manifest in various scenarios, such as a child leaving home unnoticed, wandering off in public places like stores or parks, or running from a school classroom or playground. It can also include attempting to exit a vehicle or climbing out of a bedroom window at night. Nearly half of all children with autism, around 49%, are reported to have attempted elopement at least once after the age of four.
Reasons and Risks of Elopement
Elopement in autistic individuals stems from various underlying motivations, often related to the characteristics of autism. Sensory sensitivities can trigger elopement, as a child might seek to escape an overwhelming environment with too much noise or light, or conversely, seek specific sensory input. Communication difficulties also play a role; individuals who struggle to express their needs or discomfort verbally may elope as a non-verbal way to communicate their desires or to escape a situation. A strong desire to explore, a fascination with specific objects or locations, or an attempt to reach a preferred item can also motivate elopement. Additionally, changes to routines or a fight-or-flight response to perceived threats can lead to an individual bolting from a safe area.
The risks associated with elopement are significant and can include severe injury or even death. Autistic children who elope may lack an understanding of danger, making them vulnerable to hazards like traffic accidents or drowning. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for autistic children who elope, accounting for a high percentage of fatalities in such incidents. Beyond traffic and water, other dangers include exposure to harsh weather conditions, falls, encounters with strangers, or getting lost.
Strategies for Prevention
Preventing elopement involves a multi-faceted approach, combining environmental modifications with behavioral interventions and safety education. Securing the home environment includes installing child-proof locks on doors and windows that are out of reach, as well as alarm systems that alert caregivers when an exit is opened. Fencing outdoor play areas and securing gates can also create a safer space. It is also helpful to hide keys to prevent easy access to exits.
Identification tools and tracking devices offer additional layers of security. Equipping an individual with an ID bracelet or necklace that includes their name, contact information, and diagnosis can assist in their safe return if they are found. Wearable GPS tracking devices allow caregivers to monitor the individual’s location in real-time. Regularly checking in on the individual, especially during busy or distracting times, can also reduce elopement opportunities.
Teaching safety skills tailored to the individual’s understanding is also important. This can involve teaching them to stay close to a caregiver using techniques like hand-holding or designating “safe zones”. Visual aids, such as picture schedules and social stories, can help communicate safety rules and expectations, illustrating appropriate behaviors in various situations. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is often used to address elopement by identifying the behavior’s triggers and teaching alternative, safer ways for the individual to express their needs. For example, if elopement is to escape sensory overload, the individual can be taught to request a break instead.
Responding to Elopement Incidents
If an individual elopes, the first step is to search the immediate vicinity, paying close attention to potential hazards like bodies of water, busy streets, or secluded areas. It is important to have an emergency plan prepared that outlines specific steps, including contact information for family members, neighbors, and local authorities.
Contacting emergency services, such as 911, should be done promptly, providing them with essential details about the individual, including their diagnosis, communication abilities, and any known attractions or dangers. Alerting neighbors and nearby friends can enlist their help in the search, and it is beneficial to have previously shared information about the individual’s tendency to elope with them. Creating a “missing person” kit with a current photograph and details about the individual’s appearance can expedite search efforts by law enforcement.