People with dementia often get lost, and their caregivers are concerned. Creating a safety plan and using tracking devices can minimize the risks that come with wandering, such as injury or even death.Tracking devices for dementia (also known as locator devices or GPS) are assistive technologies that use satellites to figure out a person’s location and send it to a receiver, such as a smartphone app. They can also help with the logistics of finding someone who has walked away, such as speeding up search and rescue operations or reducing costs. dementia wandering There are many different types of dementia-friendly trackers, such as bracelets and watches that can be slipped in and out of pockets. Some are waterproof and have extra features like an SOS button or fall detection. Others are designed to be worn inside a shoe or a bag, while others can be attached to clothing with special fasteners. Many have battery life of up to a week and are easy to recharge. Some have activation and monthly subscription fees, while others have lower upfront costs with bundled packages.When choosing a tracking device, consider a person’s lifelong values and wishes around personal freedom, privacy and independence. People who have been recently diagnosed should talk with their health care provider about their preferences for tracking devices in advance, especially if they live alone or will need to start relying on them for safety. Some people think that using a tracking device increases their independence and safety, while others may feel that it’s an invasion of their privacy.