Researchers found that older adults with dementia are at a higher risk of going missing and facing harm during these incidents. A study analyzed data from police forces in England and Wales over eight years, revealing that 27% of the 1,540 missing incidents involved individuals aged 65 and older with dementia. Most of these individuals went missing from their homes or neighborhoods, and about half were located by police. Alarmingly, 9% of those with dementia experienced significant harm, including one death.

This research highlights the importance of understanding the risks associated with missing incidents, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable. If you or someone you know is caring for an older adult with dementia, it’s crucial to be aware of these risks. Factors like older age, going missing at night, and being missing for an extended period significantly increase the chances of harm. The study found that both people with and without dementia can experience repeat missing incidents, with 14% of those with dementia and 11% without facing this issue.

The evidence comes from a large retrospective analysis of police reports, making it one of the most comprehensive studies on this topic to date. While the findings are concerning, they also underscore the need for preventative measures to protect older adults. Communities and families should consider strategies to ensure the safety of older adults, such as creating safe environments, establishing check-in systems, and promoting awareness about the risks of wandering.

Source: academic.oup.com