ID bracelets help people with dementia who wander get back home

ID bracelets help people with dementia who wander get back home

People with dementia sometimes wander, which is scary for both the person with dementia and those who love and support that person. A personal identification bracelet may help alleviate some of those concerns. 

Senior Resources and the SafeSeniors collaborative have partnered to promote the Miles for Memories Personal ID program, which offers support for those with dementia and their caregivers. A special bracelet (or nugget or watch) allows for storage of emergency and medical  information so it can be accessed by emergency personnel if someone is found wandering. 

The specially designed bracelet contains a QR code, 800 number, and ID on the back side. When scanning the QR code or calling the 800 number, the person’s emergency contact number and information will be provided so the contact person can locate them. 

The process is fairly simple. Information is provided by family members or caregivers through a  phone app or online; they can decide how much information to provide. Options include a comfortable, waterproof bracelet, a nugget to be worn on a shoelace or smart watch, a Mile Tile,  or a GPS watch. Fit the bracelet to the person’s wrist  — the dominant side is recommended so it’s harder for the person to remove. If the person wanders and is found by someone familiar with the bracelet, they can scan the QR code or call the 800 number — providing the ID and PIN — on the  back of the bracelet. There is also a Plus Program that gives emergency responders access to  important medical information. 

Devices start at $15. Visit https://safeseniors.info/resources/milesformemories/ Assistance is available for those who cannot pay the full amount.  

Senior Resources has served Muskegon, Oceana and Ottawa counties since 1974. As an area agency on aging, it serves as a regional planning agency for older adult services and as a focal point for information on long term care and aging resources, linkage to care assessment and coordination services, home-based primary medical care, in-home behavioral health counseling, counseling on Medicare, and as an advocate agency for older adults and adults with disabilities.