Search and Rescue: Three Essential Tips / Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias

The moment you realize your loved one with dementia is missing, every second feels critical. While the natural instinct is to immediately begin searching, having a clear action plan can make the difference in finding them quickly and safely. Through insights from John Clark, a specialized dementia search and rescue expert in Georgia, we've compiled three essential tips for these frightening situations. Additional Resources Mentioned Georgia Emergency Search and Rescue John Clark USA 404-309-7386 [email protected] Professionally Trained in Urban Searches Alzheimers, Dementia, Children, Evidence Recovery, Major Disaster Search, NASAR, Disaster Assistance Rate, Subscribe and Share Your Tips on Social Media! Please click here to review, follow or subscribe to our podcast.   If you don’t see your preferred platform click on Podchaser and click at the bottom “Write my review” You can log in with Twitter, Facebook or GoogleOn the right you’ll see a box with “Follow”, “Rate and Review” and “Share”  Connect with us and share your tips: Website: https://www.thecaregiversjourney.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecaregiversjourney/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCaregiversJourneys/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suearmstrongryan/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancytreaster/Email: [email protected], [email protected] Takeaways Tip 1: Make the Right First Move Key points: Call emergency services immediately, before starting your own searchDon't wait to make the call while searching on your ownAsk if there are dementia-specialized search teams in your areaRemember that it's okay to search after making the call Tip 2: Provide Critical Information to Searchers Key preparation points: Keep current photos readily available: Essential information to share: Recent conversations and topics they've discussedTheir maiden name or previous namesNicknames family members useCommon walking routes or regular destinationsNearby water sources (pools, ponds, lakes)Places from their past they might seek outTheir current stage in their dementia journeyRecent behaviors or patternsCurrent medications Tip 3: Know What to Expect After They're Found Standard procedures: Medical evaluation is typicalTransportation to hospital via ambulance or police carAssessment for any injuries or exposure For More Read Full Blog here Building Better Local Resources Not every community has specialized dementia search and rescue teams, but there are ways to improve local capabilities: Steps to take: Contact your local Alzheimer's Association chapterAsk about existing specialized search resourcesInquire about training opportunities for local emergency servicesAdvocate for specialized training in your communityNetwork with other caregivers to share experiences and resources Note: If you're in Georgia, specialized dementia search and rescue services are available. Contact your local emergency services or Alzheimer's Association chapter for more information.