Families urged to join Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County's Project Lifesaver for dementia wander risk
perigon
Last updated: April 18, 2026
Smith County is promoting Project Lifesaver to assist families with loved ones who wander due to dementia. This initiative provides a tracking bracelet to ensure swift recovery and enhance the safety of individuals at risk.
- The Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County is actively encouraging residents to enroll in Project Lifesaver. This program offers a wearable transmitter, resembling a bracelet, to individuals who are prone to wandering and have been diagnosed with a cognitive impairment like dementia or Alzheimer's.
- Upon receiving a report of a missing person enrolled in Project Lifesaver, trained local law enforcement and emergency responders are dispatched to initiate a search. They utilize specialized radio frequency equipment to locate the missing individual by tracking the unique signal emitted by their bracelet.
- The system is designed for rapid response, aiming to significantly reduce the time it takes to find a lost individual. This timely recovery is crucial in preventing potentially dangerous situations and ensuring the well-being of those with memory-related conditions.
- Participation in Project Lifesaver involves a one-time setup fee for the transmitter and a monthly maintenance fee. However, the Alzheimer's Alliance acknowledges that these costs can be a barrier for some families and is working to secure grants and donations to offset these expenses.
- The program prioritizes the safety and peace of mind for families, offering a proactive solution to the challenges posed by dementia-related wandering.
