New tool helps find missing Alzheimer’s, dementia patients

JACKSON, Tenn. — A new tool could help families find their missing loved ones sooner. It is designed specifically for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients.

“We hope no one ever has to use it,” Home Instead Senior Care General Manager Robert McKenzie said.

A website called the Missing Senior Network allows families to put in contact information then send out a text message or email alert if their loved one goes missing. “They can send a notification out to these people to let them know that we need to look for them, to be on alert for them,” McKenzie said.

Home Instead Senior Care created the new communication tool. McKenzie works out of the company’s office in north Jackson. “Instead of you having to go through and text a million family and friends, it’s a method to actually begin finding someone,” he said.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six out of 10 people with dementia will wander.

To register your family, go to missingseniornetwork.com and put in your contact information. Have other family, friends or people who may know the patient also register. If the person goes missing, everyone gets an alert.

“Everybody is on the same page communicating back and forth,” McKenzie said.

The Missing Senior Network is a free service. You can have an unlimited number of people on your contact list.

Home Instead Senior Care also recommends getting local businesses involved if your Alzheimer’s or dementia patient may go there.