Elopement

Elopement typically refers to a situation where an individual leaves their usual environment or residence secretly or quickly, often to marry or pursue a romantic relationship without family, friends, or witnesses. In a healthcare or caregiving context, elopement means a person, such as an elderly or vulnerable individual, intentionally or accidentally leaving a safe space like a nursing home or hospital, risking their safety. It is a concern for caregivers and institutions, prompting measures to prevent such incidents and ensure the individual’s well-being.