What to do if you find an elderly person lost?

According to the Alzheimer's Association, six in ten people with dementia will wander and become lost. Knowing what to do if you find an elderly person lost is crucial, as acting quickly and calmly can make all the difference in ensuring their safe return.

Quick Summary

Guide to safely assisting a lost elderly person, from the initial approach and providing comfort to contacting emergency services and Adult Protective Services (APS). Covers what to do, what to avoid, and provides information on resources like the Silver Alert system.

Key Points

• Approach with care: Always approach a potentially lost elderly person calmly, speak slowly, and give them space.

• Prioritize safety: Immediately assess the environment for dangers and get the person to a safer, quieter location if they are willing.

• Contact professionals: Call 911 for immediate danger or use local police/APS for non-emergencies, mentioning any signs of cognitive impairment.

• Provide reassurance: Reassure the person frequently that they are safe and that help is on the way, even if they seem agitated.

• Gather basic information: Discreetly check for identification bracelets or cards and ask simple questions to aid authorities.

• Stay with them: Remain with the person until emergency services arrive to ensure their continuous safety.

• Avoid confrontation: Never argue or attempt to correct a confused person, as this can escalate their anxiety.

Approaching and Assessing the Situation

When you first encounter an elderly person who seems lost or confused, your approach is key to their safety and your own. A calm, gentle demeanor can prevent them from becoming more agitated or frightened. Assess the immediate environment for any dangers, such as traffic, bad weather, or uneven ground.

1. Approach Gently and Calmly: Do not rush toward them. Make sure your body language is relaxed and non-threatening. Give them space and avoid getting too close to their personal space right away. 2. Speak Slowly and Clearly: Use a calm, reassuring tone. Use short, simple sentences and ask one question at a time. This helps avoid overwhelming a person who may be cognitively impaired. 3. Introduce Yourself: Politely explain who you are and that you want to help. This can build trust and make them more comfortable speaking with you. 4. Rephrase, Don't Repeat: If they don't understand you, rephrase what you said rather than just repeating it louder. Non-verbal cues, like pointing, can also help. 5. Check for Immediate Needs: Are they dressed appropriately for the weather? Do they seem thirsty or hungry? Addressing basic needs can help them feel more secure.

Contacting the Right Authorities

Once you have made a connection and assessed their immediate needs, it is time to involve the correct authorities. This is a critical step, as they have the resources and protocols to safely manage the situation.

• Call 911 for immediate danger. If the person is in distress, disoriented in a dangerous area, or seems medically unwell, call 911 immediately. Let the dispatcher know you have found a vulnerable or confused person.
• Consider Adult Protective Services (APS). For situations that aren't an immediate life-threatening emergency, contacting Adult Protective Services can be appropriate. They can intervene and provide assistance for vulnerable adults.
• Inquire about a Silver Alert. Many states have a Silver Alert system for missing cognitively-impaired adults. When you report the person to law enforcement, mention that they appear to have a cognitive impairment to trigger this protocol if applicable.

Providing Comfort and Support

While you wait for help to arrive, your primary role is to keep the person safe and calm. Your patience and kindness will be incredibly valuable.

• Move to a safe, quiet location. If possible and if the person is willing, suggest moving to a nearby bench, cafe, or store to get out of the elements and away from noise.
• Listen to them. Allow them to talk and express their feelings without judgment. Even if their story is confused, listening shows you care.
• Provide reassurance. Continually reassure them that they are safe and that you are there to help them get back home. Repeat this message as many times as necessary.
• Distract them gently. If they are agitated, you can try distracting them with a simple task or conversation piece, like folding a napkin or looking at a photo.

How to Gather Information Effectively

While avoiding overwhelming the person, gathering small pieces of information can help authorities identify them.

• Look for identification. Subtly check for a MedicAlert bracelet, necklace, or identification card in their wallet. This can provide crucial contact information or medical details.
• Ask simple questions. Try asking simple, non-leading questions such as, "Can you tell me your name?" or "Do you know where you live?"
• Observe their clothing. Note what they are wearing, as this will help authorities match them with a missing person's report.
• Take a photo. If it feels appropriate and safe, ask if you can take a photo to show the authorities, but do not push the issue if they decline.

Steps to Take vs. Avoid

What to Do	What to Avoid
Stay with them. Never leave the person alone until help arrives.	Don't argue or correct them. Trying to reason with a confused person can increase their agitation.
Listen patiently. Allow them to tell their story, even if it seems nonsensical.	Don't force them to go with you. If they are resistant, simply keep them in sight and wait for professionals.
Provide simple reassurance. Use calm, short phrases to let them know they are safe.	Don't ask complex questions. Stick to simple, yes-or-no questions to avoid confusion.
Contact emergency services. Your local police or 911 are the best resources.	Don't involve social media too early. Wait for law enforcement to initiate wider alerts like Silver Alerts.
Check for medical identification. Look for bracelets or cards that can aid first responders.	Don't panic. Your calm presence is what the person needs most.

Conclusion

Encountering a lost elderly person can be a frightening and stressful experience for everyone involved. Your ability to remain calm and follow a clear, compassionate procedure is paramount. From the initial gentle approach to contacting the appropriate emergency services, your actions provide a vital link in ensuring their safety and reunification with family. Never underestimate the power of your calm presence and reassurance. By keeping this guide in mind, you can be a prepared and effective community member, ready to assist a vulnerable senior in their moment of need. For more resources on supporting seniors, visit the Alzheimer's Association.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I approach a lost elderly person directly?

Yes, but approach with care. Maintain a calm demeanor, avoid invading their personal space, and speak in a slow, clear, and reassuring tone.

When should I call 911 for a lost elderly person?

Call 911 if the person is in immediate physical danger, seems medically distressed, or is wandering in a high-risk area like a busy road. For non-emergencies, you can contact the local police's non-emergency line.

What if the elderly person becomes agitated or aggressive?

If they become agitated, do not argue or try to correct them. Maintain a safe distance, use a soothing voice, and reassure them that you are there to help. Avoid physical contact and wait for emergency responders.

What is a Silver Alert?

A Silver Alert is a public notification system that broadcasts information about missing elderly persons with cognitive impairments, like Alzheimer's or dementia. Inform law enforcement about the person's possible condition when reporting.

Should I try to take them to my home?

No, it is best not to transport them yourself. Wait with them in a safe, public location, such as a cafe or store, until law enforcement or medical professionals arrive.

What if they can't remember their name or where they live?

If they cannot provide this information, don't press them. Look for an ID bracelet or card. Provide authorities with a detailed description of the person and their last known location.

Can I use social media to help find their family?

After contacting the authorities, you can use social media, but be cautious. It's often more effective to share official alerts, like a Silver Alert, rather than initiating your own search, which can sometimes interfere with police efforts.