I'm looking for a GPS for my loved one. I find it hard to believe the devices I find on email often require someone to punch a panic button. Not sure that a person with Alzheimer's has that ability. Medic alerts also require some type of ability to call for help or a panic button. Not sure my loved one would remember to do that. Most devices are not always with the person, i.e. at night when they have retired for the evening. I researched and bought one, but it works hit and miss. Any suggestions?
If you google trackers for Alzheimer's patients you will get some ideas. The Alzhermers.net site has suggestions
www.alzheimers.net/8-8-14-location-devices-dementia/ Good Luck!
My Husband wandered a few times and the Police suggested that I contact the Mental Health Department where I am, they have a program called Care Trak and it is a watch like device that is worn on the wrist. A profile is done of the person, a photo is taken and this info is given to the police. When the person goes missing you call 911, tell the dispatcher that they are on Care Trak. The police set up a "command station" with all the info they have and an officer goes around in the car with an antenna that is set up to pick up the signal from the device. I was told this is better than GPS as the signal does not get lost if the person enters an area where signals are not clear.
the person with the device does have to be under 24 hour watch though. You can not leave them alone to go to the store, to work. It is for anyone that can not easily communicate. A person with dementia, autism are the perfect candidates.
There is also the collars that are put on dogs, you can set an acceptable range and you will be sent an alert if the collar is past the pre set boundary. I think the device can be removed from a collar and put on a belt, key chain.
And I have seen tracking devices that are placed in shoes.
Some of these have a monthly cost.
The Care Trak, I had to check the battery daily, log the checks and we had to go to the office 1 time a month to have the battery changed.
Easiest thing would be to check with your local police or county sheriff. If nothing else they would probably like to know that there is a potential that you may be calling for a wandering adult with dementia. I have found that they are nothing but helpful and understanding.
The cameras cost about $40 each and are easy to hook up to your WIFI. There is an app for your phone and you can check on them anytime. It swivels 360, has sound and motion detection (optional). Great product!!
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Most traditional medical alert monitoring systems rely on a pendant or button that your loved one must press in order to call for help. These systems are highly effective and save lives every day.
Some seniors, though, are at a higher risk of falling than others. There is the possibility that when your loved one falls, they may be unable to press their medical alert button to call for help. This is where Automatic Fall Detection comes in.
From the company called "Medical Guardian"--
Automatic fall detection technology is a newcomer to the medical alert monitoring industry and it’s not without some controversy, since they can’t detect 100% of all falls. Read our most frequently asked questions in regards to medical alert devices with fall detection to learn more.
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