Concern about elders getting lost

My father seems to have declining memory, as he often forgets to bring his octopus and identity card when he is going out. I associate his current conditions with the symptoms of dementia. This morning, he went alone to a Chinese restaurant nearby for breakfast. However, even at midday, he has not returned home. I was very anxious and kept calling his mobile phone but he did not answer. I'm worried he has lost his way home. What should we do? 
  • Family members should stay calm first, if you suspect the elder parent seems to have lost his way. 
  • Try to use the "location tracking" app installed at his mobile phone to locate him. 
  • Contact the management office of your building or the Chinese restaurant instantly, give exact description of the elder, and ask if, where and when they last saw the elder, which will help you locate him. 
  • Call the police immediately and tell them your father's characteristics and other relevant information to find him. 
  • Utilise people tracking platforms or social media to ask the public or your acquaintances to provide assistance, try to visit places where he may go, such as his previous work place, frequently visited places or friends' homes, etc. 
  • Elders having dementia should not resist seeking help from doctors. Carers and family members can encourage them doing cognitive test in their familiar environment to reduce their resistance in checking their mental abilities. If they need further assistance, arrange them to see a psychiatrist.


Act now :

1) switch on the Location Services function in the mobile phone, and

2) check if the elders’ mobile phones have been installed with any “location tracking” app.


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