Lets Keep Track of Autistic Children and Demented Elders

Dan Frith

Contributor

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I have often read the sad newspaper report of an elderly nursing home resident who wanders away from the facility (elopes) and is found dead hours or days later due to exposure. Less often, but equally disturbing is the report of the young autistic child who wanders away from his or her home and is killed or seriously injured as a result.

The National Alzheimer's Association reports that there are an estimated 5.2 million Americans with Alzheimer's and more than half of those affected go on random and dangerous walks. The National Autism Association says that 92% of respondents to an online poll indicated their child was "at risk" for wandering and in the last 4 years 14 children have died as a result of wandering.

Isn't there a better way to watch over these vulnerable individuals? The answer is, "yes."

Companies offering "search and rescue" products is starting to take off in the United States. These companies include LoJack Corporation, Care Track International, and Locator Systems. This is the same technology which the police use to find stolen cars. The individual wears a lightweight wristband radio-tracking device. The cost is $25 to $30 per month.

Check with the local police department BEFORE making a purchase as your police department may prefer (and support) one manufacturer over another.