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According to the Alzheimer's Association, over 5.3 million people in the U.S. have Alzheimer's disease and 60% of those with dementia will wander. Historically, law enforcement search and rescue missions could last for several days and were very difficult because people with dementia tend to hide. Even though resources spent on a typical search could total more than $60,000, with up to 100 people searching, some people who wandered were never found.
The average search time is 30 minutes with Project Lifesaver. Since its inception in 1999, in Chesapeake, VA, program has a 100% success rate, with over 1,800 searches conducted. Search costs have also decreased to a fraction of the former expense since only three deputies, and possibly a helicopter, conduct the search.
Transmitters, worn on the wrist or ankle, use an FM tracking signal—a frequency that works anywhere. Local law enforcement officers use an antenna and receiver to track the transmitter, within up to a seven-mile radius. Maintenance for the transmitter is simple. The client's caregiver must check the transmitter's battery every day to ensure that it is working properly. Once a month, a County employee will change the transmitter's battery. Clients of Aging Services can bring their loved one in to a Senior Center to have the monthly battery change.
The Sheriff's office coordinates enrollment for Project Lifesaver in Hillsborough County. People with dementia who have a history of wandering can register to be screened for participation in the program. The cost of the program is $99 to enroll, which covers the cost of the transmitter, and there is a $30 monthly program fee.
Call 2-1-1 for more information or to enroll.
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