Options range from an engraved bracelet with a phone number, through GPS watches and shoe insoles, to registered wandering-response programmes. Phone-based tracking fails when the phone is left behind, which is common.
Local police departments in many areas run voluntary registries for people at risk of wandering.
Why it matters
Most people who wander are found within a few hours if the search starts early, and identification is what makes that possible.
Sources
Where to check this, and where to read more. All external and all authoritative.
- Alzheimer's Association: Wandering and getting lost
- Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900
Location devices and ID where you live
The local guide on this, for each city we cover.
- Baltimore, MD
- Boston, MA
- Buffalo, NY
- Charlotte, NC
- Chicago, IL
- Columbus, OH
- Dallas, TX
- Denver, CO
- Detroit, MI
- Houston, TX
- Los Angeles, CA
- Memphis, TN
- Milwaukee, WI
- New York, NY
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Tucson, AZ