A client with mid-stage dementia living in assisted living frequently attempts to leave the building, stating, 'I need to pick up my children from school.' It is late afternoon. What is the most appropriate initial response for the HCA?

Question: A client with mid-stage dementia living in assisted living frequently attempts to leave the building, stating, 'I need to pick up my children from school.' It is late afternoon. What is the most appropriate initial response for the HCA?

Answer options: ✅ Gently redirect the client by engaging them in a preferred activity near the lounge.

• Explain to the client that their children are grown adults and are no longer in school.
• Securely lock all exits and inform the client that they are not permitted to leave.
• Tell the client that their children are already home and safe, and they can relax.

Correct answer: Gently redirect the client by engaging them in a preferred activity near the lounge.

Explanation: Gently redirecting with a preferred activity is an appropriate de-escalation technique for responsive behaviours, especially when the client is disoriented to time and place. Directly correcting or confronting can increase agitation.