People living with dementia are at risk of getting lost, and . For example, in July, a person living with dementia went missing and was found by the police .
But for some people, the outcome might be different. They might , or in some cases .
This is a growing problem. Today, , and this number is projected to . Recent research reported that the prevalence of missing person calls involving an individual with dementia has increased .
The risk of getting lost differs among people living with dementia based on their . For example, some individuals may have , which means they don’t feel the cold or heat. That .
Prevention strategies
Prevention is fundamental and for persons living with dementia. For example, Alzheimer Scotland developed . If someone with dementia goes missing in the area, the app sends an alert to community citizens who have opted in.
In Canada, data on missing older adults living with dementia are sparse, and information on reported incidents typically comes from news and media reports. Japan is the only country we know of that keeps annual statistics regarding the number of cases of missing adults with dementia. In 2021, .
It is clear that as a country, Canada needs better approaches to manage and prevent missing incidents involving people living with dementia. For example, prevention strategies could include:
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to identify and intervene when they see a missing person with dementia.
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and in the community. This may include providing safe common areas at home such as a fenced patio, labelling doors to provide a reminder of what each room is for, having a recent photo of the individual, and becoming familiar with the neighbourhood, including likely places a person might wander to and any hazards such as ponds and busy roads.
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Technology to support persons living with dementia and their caregivers. For example, .
Sharing data individual risk factors
Finally, Canada needs a national strategy for collecting data on incidents of missing people living with dementia. This could optimize time and resources spent on police and search and rescue efforts, and enhance the chances of saving the lives of those who go missing.
The integration of multiple data sources such as health care, social programs, police and other first responders, and volunteer search and rescue organizations is key to sustain preventive efforts and proactively identify risk in the community. Currently, .
Researchers at the University of Waterloo are leading an . This project includes , such as . The project includes collaboration with and first responders, such as firefighters, paramedics and peacekeepers, embedded in these communities.
The need for these resources is growing. By 2050, . With an increasing number of people living with dementia worldwide and in Canada, it’s crucial to find ways to promote community awareness and prevent people with dementia from getting lost.
Hector Perez has received funding from AGE-WELL NCE and currently receives funding from the Games Institute at the University of Waterloo.
Lili Liu receives funding from Public Safety Canada, AGE-WELL NCE, and University of Waterloo Games Institute.
