July 31, 2013

Queensland Police are urging families to be “pro-active” about the safety and well-being of vulnerable relatives.

During 2011/2012 financial year, Queensland police received 252 reports from family and friends reporting persons over the age of 60 missing, with many suffering a medical condition including dementia-related conditions.

While in most cases missing persons are located quickly and without incident, it is a situation that can be prevented with just a few simple steps.

“On average 17 people every day of the year are reported missing to police,” Detective Superintendent Steve Holahan of the State Crime Command’s Homicide Group said.

“Of course a number of these are calls to assist with an older person or a person living with an impairment who has gone missing or simply lost their way home and can be located quickly.

“We are always there to assist in these situations, but in many instances it is something that is avoidable.

“We understand that families are busy and have a number of stresses and competing priorities. However by being proactive you can feel a bit more confident in the safety of your family member and prevent the stress and trauma involved with a missing person incident.”

Alzheimer’s Australia Queensland CEO Victoria Beedle says there were a number of ways to minimise the chance of your loved one with dementia going missing.

“Involving your loved one in meaningful activities throughout the day can reduce the boredom and restlessness that often leads a person with dementia to wander,” Ms Beedle said.

“More than 51,000 people in Queensland are living with dementia and it’s important to remember it can affect younger people. There are people in their thirties, forties and fifties living with a diagnosis of dementia, too.

“If you’re worried about a loved one’s memory or wandering you can contact our National Dementia helpline on 1800-100-500 for more information,” she said.

Some tips included:

  • Make sure the person has appropriate and current identification with them at all times in their wallet or purse. An identity bracelet with name, address and phone number is an excellent way to ensure their personal details are easy to access.
  • Regularly update the photos you have of the person and make them easily accessible, should you need to access them in a hurry.
  • Consider installing a bell or buzzer near doorways so you are aware when your loved one is leaving the home.
  • Take the time to look at the local area they live in. Ask them to show you the local shops and facilities they visit and the route they take each time.
  • Speak with their neighbours and local shop owners and ask if they can keep a friendly eye on your loved one. Provide them with a way to contact you.
  • Never wait to report the matter to police if you think they may be missing. You do not have to wait 24 hours to report a person missing. Acting quickly in these situations enables police to respond to the matter and begin looking for your family member.

Missing Persons Week 2013 runs from July 28-August 3.