Glossary

Navigating the seniors housing maze can be difficult at first. These simple definitions will help you with the terminology you will run into along the way. If you have questions about these terms, have additional senior housing terms you would like to suggest we add, or need additional help, please contact a Pathway community near you.

To see a term’s definition, click the title.

W

Wandering

A term used to describe the walking or escape patterns of confused residents.

Wayfinding

Communication techniques used to help residents with dementia find their own way from one place to another. Examples of wayfinding include signs, carpet patterns, arrows, as well as personal assistance by a caregiver.

Pathway wishes to acknowledge the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging (AAHSA), the Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA), Senior Living University, and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for their contributions to this Glossary. This information is presented for informational purposes only and should not be used as medical or legal advice.