Emergency Preparedness & Public Safety
What to do if a loved one with cognitive impairment goes missing
6 June 2025 Charbonneau Villager
Emergency Preparedness & Public Safety
By NEIL KENNEDY
What to do if a loved one with cognitive impairment goes missing
By Nadine Kincaid and Neil Kennedy for EPPS, adapted from Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue, with contributions by Nikki Lembke and Amie Northagen
KENNEDY
It’ s a nightmare scenario that no family ever wants to face— a loved one with dementia or another cognitive impairment suddenly goes missing. Unfortunately, it’ s more common than many people realize. Just last week, there were two high-profile searches in Oregon and Washington involving older adults and a young man with autism. These incidents underscore the urgent need for all families— especially those living with seniors or individuals with cognitive conditions— to be prepared and proactive.
Here in Charbonneau, where many residents are retirees and older adults, this topic hits close to home. We are a strong, connected community that cares for our neighbors. That means being ready, not just reacting, when it comes to the safety and well-being of those most vulnerable.
If this situation were to happen to your loved one, would you know how to prevent it— or how to respond
quickly and effectively? Fortunately, organizations like the Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue have put together practical tips for reducing the risk of wandering and ensuring a rapid response from search and rescue teams. These steps can make the difference between a safe return and a prolonged— and dangerous— search.
How to reduce the risk of wandering
Wandering behavior is common in individuals with Alzheimer’ s disease, dementia or other cognitive impairments. It can occur without warning and even in the most seemingly secure environments. However, there are preventative steps you can take to reduce the chances of someone leaving unnoticed:
Install high door locks and alarms: Placing locks higher up— beyond eye level and reach— can deter wandering. Window and door alarms can also alert caregivers when someone is attempting to leave.
Use video surveillance systems: These not only deter wandering but also help track movements if someone does exit the home.
Use tracking technology: Place a GPS tracker or device such as an Apple AirTag in frequently worn clothing or shoes. This small step can dramatically reduce search time in the event of an emergency.
Consider a medical ID bracelet: These often contain key information and can help responders identify and assist the person if found by a member of the public.
Create a daily routine: Consistent daily patterns can reduce anxiety and confusion— two factors that often lead to wandering.
What to do if someone goes missing
Despite the best prevention strategies, emergencies can still happen. If you realize a loved one is missing, the first minutes are critical. Here’ s what to do:
Call 911 immediately: Do not delay. Inform the dispatcher that the missing individual has cognitive impairment. This information is crucial and often changes the urgency and method of response.
Provide detailed information to dispatch:
Has the individual wandered before? If so, where were they found?
Did they take public transit in the past?
What were they wearing, and where were they last seen?
Are there any unique characteristics, such as mobility aids, tattoos, speech patterns or behaviors that could help identify them?
Notify the CCC office or Corporate Crime Control: This is dependent on the time of day. Once made aware we can assist with the search.
Share a current photo: Make sure you have a recent, clear photo on hand( ideally digital and printed) that can be shared with authorities and search teams immediately.
Preserve scent sources for K-9 teams: Avoid handling your loved one’ s pillow, worn clothing, or bed linens. These items can help scent dogs track them quickly and accurately.
Check security footage: Review your home’ s cameras and ask neighbors to check theirs. Doorbell videos can provide vital clues— which
direction the person was heading, what they were wearing and whether they were walking or in a vehicle.
Designate someone to remain at home: If your loved one returns on their own, it’ s important that someone is there to greet them. Seeing a familiar face can be calming and prevent further distress.
It’ s not just for seniors
While these tips are focused on individuals with cognitive impairment, the strategies are just as applicable for children and teens. Keeping current photos of all family members— and even pets— is a good safety habit for any household.
Preparedness Is a community effort
One of Charbonneau’ s greatest strengths is our sense of community. We look out for each other. We wave to our neighbors, walk together, and help each other in times of need. But real preparedness goes beyond kindness— it requires action and awareness.
Consider sharing this article with family members, caregivers and neighbors. If you know someone caring for a person with dementia or special needs, check in with them. Ask if they have a plan in place or if they need help putting one together.
Finally, let’ s not forget to thank the volunteers and professionals— like those at Clackamas County Search & Rescue, and Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue— who work tirelessly in these situations. Their expertise and compassion save lives.
Let’ s keep Charbonneau safe, informed, and connected.
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