How to find a missing person living with dementia
When a person living with dementia goes missing, it can be an extremely anxious time. Knowing the right steps to take can help you act quickly and effectively to increase the chances of finding them safely. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this challenging situation with calmness and clarity.
Who is at risk?
People living with dementia, particularly those with Alzheimer’s Disease, often face challenges with memory and spatial navigation. These difficulties can sometimes lead to disorientation and confusion, causing individuals to go missing, even in familiar environments.
In fact, research shows that 70% of people with dementia will experience at least one missing incident during the progression of the condition.
Emergency checklist
In the event that a loved one with dementia goes missing, having an emergency checklist can be a game-changer. It helps you communicate vital information to the authorities promptly and efficiently, which is essential in the search process. The checklist could include:
Share the person’s details
Starting with full name, age, and physical description, with a recent photograph of the person who is missing.
Medical information
Accurate and up to date medical information tells the police details of their dementia diagnosis, and any other medical conditions. It’s a good idea to also share a medication list, and their doctor’s contact information.
Tell the police location and time details
Contact the police immediately. Provide them with the exact time and location where the person was last seen and when they were noticed missing. This includes any recent changes that might have triggered disorientation or stress. Precise details can help the police act swiftly and direct their search more effectively.
Describe what the individual was last wearing
Give a detailed description of the clothes the person was wearing when they went missing. Mention any distinctive colours, hats, shoes, or accessories they had on. This can greatly help in making them recognisable in public areas.
Describe any previous times this has happened
If the individual has a history of wandering, share these instances with the police. Detail where they were found before and how long they were missing for. This pattern can provide important clues to where they may have gone.
Inform the police of any usual routes and familiar places
Inform the police of any usual routes and familiar places
Discuss any common paths or routines the person with dementia may follow, such as walks to the park or trips to a local store. These common routes are often retraced by those who wander. Also include a list of places the person may try to visit, like previous homes, workplaces, or favourite spots.
Their ability to communicate
Information on how well they can communicate, whether they respond to their name, and if they have any language impairments.
If they have any identification or tracking
Information on whether they are wearing an ID bracelet, like those from MedicAlert, or if they have a tracking device. This should also be accompanied with a list of family, friends, neighbours, and the person’s care community, who may help in locating the person.
Any local dangers
It’s important to point out any nearby hazards such as water bodies, dense forests, high traffic areas, or construction sites.
Tell them you have completed a Herbert Protocol form
Let the police know you have filled out the Herbert Protocol form, which contains essential information that could expedite the search. It’s a valuable tool that can provide quick insight into the missing person’s habits, medical needs, and favourite places.
Being prepared with this checklist can help bring a loved one home safely. Alongside these immediate actions, the Herbert Protocol form is your ongoing support, ensuring you’re always ready to give the most helpful information to the police in the search for a missing person with dementia.
Useful tips for when a person with dementia goes missing
When a loved one with dementia is reported missing, it’s a race against time. Here’s what you can do:
Stay Calm
Feeling anxious is natural, but staying calm helps you think clearly and act quickly. Take a deep breath and focus on what needs to be done.
Immediate Search
Check familiar spots both inside and outside your home. If they aren’t quickly found, widen your search area to nearby places they are fond of.
Contact Authorities
If you can’t find them, call the police right away. Provide a recent photo and inform them of the completed Herbert Protocol form, which can expedite the search.
Recall Past Incidents
Share any previous missing incidents with the police, including where they were found and how they got there.
Community Support
Reach out to neighbours and local community members who can assist in the search.
Being prepared
When your loved one is found, greet them with reassurance, not scolding. They may be just as unsettled by the experience. Once they’re safe, take time to understand their needs; often, the restless behaviour is a phase that can be managed with patience and empathy.
Where to get help
It’s best to get advice about taking proactive steps for preventing restlessness and walking with purpose, which require planning and preparing in advance.
However, there are also a few additional resources and communities that can help:
