Understanding the Risk of Wandering
As a person's dementia progresses, memory loss and confusion can lead to a tendency to wander, often with the intent to go somewhere familiar, like an old home or workplace. This behavior, known as elopement, can be dangerous, as the individual may become disoriented or get injured. Beyond physical safety, the psychological toll on both the person with dementia and their family can be immense. Modern tracking technology offers a lifeline, helping to maintain safety while allowing the person to retain some independence.
Types of Tracking Technology
Choosing a tracking method depends on the individual's specific needs, daily routine, and stage of dementia. Different technologies offer varying levels of accuracy and range.
GPS (Global Positioning System)
- How it works: Uses signals from satellites to pinpoint a device's location with high accuracy, especially outdoors.
- Best for: Outdoor tracking, like walks around the neighborhood or car travel.
- Limitations: Less reliable indoors or in areas with poor satellite reception, such as dense urban areas or under thick foliage.
A-GPS (Assisted GPS)
- How it works: Combines satellite GPS with data from cellular networks to improve location accuracy and speed.
- Best for: Tracking both indoors and outdoors, making it a more reliable all-around option.
- Limitations: Dependent on cellular network coverage.
Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
- How it works: Uses short-range Bluetooth signals to determine proximity between a tracker and a 'beacon'.
- Best for: Home use, where beacons can be placed to alert caregivers when a person leaves the house or a specific room.
- Limitations: Very short range, so it is not useful for tracking a person once they are away from home.
Cellular Network Tracking
- How it works: Relies solely on cellular tower triangulation to determine location.
- Best for: Providing approximate location data when GPS is unavailable, or for simpler trackers without advanced GPS hardware.
- Limitations: Not as precise as GPS and requires adequate cellular coverage.
Popular Tracking Devices
Wearable devices are often the most practical choice, as they are less likely to be forgotten or lost. Many devices are designed to be discreet and comfortable.
GPS Watches and Smartwatches
- Features: Include real-time GPS, two-way communication (often with auto-answer), SOS buttons, and sometimes fall detection.
- Acceptance: Many resemble regular watches, which may increase acceptance and prevent stigmatization.
- Considerations: Can have shorter battery life and may be removed or forgotten.
GPS Shoe Inserts (SmartSoles)
- Features: Discreet inserts placed inside a person's shoes.
- Acceptance: Highly discreet, as most people with dementia wear shoes when leaving the house.
- Considerations: Requires ensuring the same pair of shoes is always worn and inserts are charged.
Clip-on and Keychain Trackers
- Features: Small, portable units that can be clipped to clothing or a keychain.
- Acceptance: Less intrusive than a watch for some.
- Considerations: Can be easily removed, lost, or forgotten.
Smartphone Apps
- Features: Utilize the phone's built-in GPS capabilities for tracking.
- Acceptance: Relies on the person carrying and operating their smartphone.
- Considerations: Not reliable for those who may forget or discard their phone.
Key Features to Prioritize
When selecting a device, focus on features that directly address the safety concerns of dementia-related wandering.
- Geofencing (Safe Zones): Allows caregivers to set up virtual boundaries around specific locations, like home or a park. An alert is sent when the person enters or leaves these areas.
- Battery Life: Opt for devices with long battery life, especially if the person may forget to charge it daily. Some options last for days or weeks.
- Ease of Use for Caregivers: The companion app should be intuitive, allowing multiple family members to monitor and receive alerts.
- Comfort and Wearability: A device that is comfortable and easy to wear is more likely to be used consistently. Secure straps or non-removable options are available for those who try to remove trackers.
- Two-Way Communication: Enables caregivers to speak with their loved one directly through the device, which can be reassuring during moments of confusion.
- Fall Detection: Advanced models include sensors that can automatically detect a fall and send an alert to emergency contacts.
Comparison Table: Tracking Device Options
| Device Type | Discretion | Battery Life | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GPS Watch | Moderate to High | Varies (1-7 days) | Individuals who accept wearing a watch | May be removed or forgotten; higher cost for advanced models |
| Shoe Insert | Very High | Long (weeks) | Anyone who consistently wears shoes | Requires vigilance on charging; tied to one pair of shoes |
| Clip-on/Keychain | High | Medium to Long | Early-stage dementia, not prone to removing items | Easily lost or forgotten; can be removed |
| Smartphone App | High (if phone carried) | Varies | Tech-savvy early-stage patients | Only works if the person carries their phone |
| BLE Beacon | High | Very Long | Home-based monitoring | Only tracks entry/exit from a small zone |
The Ethical Dimension of Tracking
Using a tracking device involves complex ethical considerations. Caregivers must balance the need for safety with the person's independence and privacy. It is important to involve the person with dementia in the decision-making process whenever possible, explaining the purpose of the device as a tool for safety, not control. Open communication and respect for their dignity are paramount. The device should enhance, not diminish, their quality of life.
A Broader Safety Strategy
Tracking devices are a powerful tool, but they should be part of a comprehensive safety plan. Other strategies include:
- Creating a Safe Home Environment: Use alarms on doors and windows, secure exits, and install motion sensors.
- Maintaining Routine: A predictable daily schedule can reduce anxiety and restlessness, which are common triggers for wandering.
- Ensuring Proper Identification: A MedicAlert bracelet or necklace with critical information and contact numbers is essential. The MedicAlert Safely Home program is specifically designed to aid in the safe return of those with dementia.
- Engaging in Activities: Stimulating activities can reduce boredom and agitation, decreasing the urge to wander.
Conclusion
Determining what is the best way to track a person with dementia is a deeply personal decision that should be guided by their stage of the disease, their lifestyle, and their acceptance of the technology. For many, a discreet GPS wearable device offers the best balance of safety and independence. By combining technology with proactive safety measures and open communication, caregivers can significantly reduce the risks of wandering and provide a higher quality of life for their loved ones. Ultimately, the best solution is the one that is consistently worn and effectively monitored, providing peace of mind for everyone involved.
For more information and resources on dementia, visit the Alzheimer's Association.
