The Alzheimer’s Association warns that more than 60 percent of elderly patients afflicted with dementia will wander and become lost at some point in their lives. Of these, as many as 50% will die if they are not found within 24 hours. Alzheimer patients that wander are at significant risk due to memory loss or not being aware of their surroundings, injury risk (due to lack of medication and supervision), and a lack of verbal communication.
Alzheimer patients are also a risk on our highways. It is estimated that 30 to 45 percent of Alzheimer’s patients continue to drive after diagnosis. A study, published in the March-April issue of American Journal of Occupational Health, looked at media stories published between 1998 and 2008 that involved Alzheimer’s patients reported missing. They found that of 207 drivers with Alzheimer’s who went missing while driving during 1998 to 2008, 32 died and 35 were found injured, according to the research. Another 70 patients were not found at the time the data was analyzed. Some had driven for almost two days and covered more than 1,700 miles while, missing.
The Guardian GPS Tracker gives caregivers of Alzheimer patients sound technology that will ease the burden of care giving for their loved one. Caregivers can monitor their loved one to ensure their protection and safety.
How Guardian GPS Protects Alzheimer Patients
1. Prevents Wandering- The Guardian Tracker allows caregivers to track their loved ones via their cell phone or computer instantly.
2. SOS Button- Alzheimer patient can push SOS button on tracker to send instant text message with location and map to caregiver in emergency situations. If you have parents who live alone, this is a great benefit. You will no longer need to worry that they won’t be able to reach the phone if they fall or become incapacitated.
3. Geo Fence- Set Geo Fences around your house to receive an e-mail alert or a cell phone text alert when the patient leaves the house.
4. No worry of removing– The Guardian Tracker is very small and can be worn on the ankle, belt, or kept in the pocket like a small pager. The tracker comes with a secure pouch that can be attached to a belt or shoes.
When to Utilize GPS Technology
Vehicle Tracking- During the early stages of the disease, Alzheimer patients that drive have a tendency to get lost while driving. Caregivers can locate vehicle either by phone or internet and give them detail instructions on how to return home
Home Care- Device gives caregivers a peace of mind by allowing 24 hour tracking. Caregivers have an opportunity to live a normal life while having constant supervision of their loved one
Nursing Home patients- Alzheimer patients are known to wander from nursing homes. Geo fence can be set so caregiver is alerted once a patient leaves the nursing home. Caregivers can check their parent’s daily locations throughout the day by the web.