Avon and Somerset Police have introduced Bluetooth wristbands to help families caring for dementia patients. These wristbands were made under the Dementia Safeguarding Scheme and are for finding the location of those who may wander due to memory loss or confusion.
The programme started in 2015 as a way to deal with the rise in missing person cases linked to dementia. With more than 55 million people affected worldwide, practical solutions like these wristbands have become much needed for carers and families.
How Do The Wristbands Work?
The wristbands use Tile Bluetooth technology to monitor a person’s location. They connect to a smartphone app, sending an alert if the wearer moves beyond a defined distance. This system allows carers to respond quickly when necessary.
The technology benefits from Life360’s global user base, which strengthens the tracking system’s range. A QR code on the wristband contains contact details for carers, allowing someone who finds the wearer to reach out directly.
The wristbands’ design makes them easy to use for both carers and wearers. They are functional in urban and rural areas, catering to different environments.
What Makes These Wristbands Practical?
The wristbands’ batteries last up to 3 years so there’s no need to always charge. This longevity makes it better than normal GPS trackers, which need more upkeep.
They are lightweight and comfortable- great for daily use. On privacy, it comes with location data restricted to authorised carers, so that sensitive information is kept secure.
These features make the wristbands the better option for catering the specific needs of dementia patients and their carers.
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What Is The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme?
The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme was developed to improve safety for individuals with dementia. It works alongside the Herbert Protocol, a system that stores key details about individuals online to assist the police during searches.
On top of the Bluetooth wristbands, the scheme has NFC tags and GPS trackers for those who may be at greater risk. These options allow families to choose solutions that fit their specific situations.
Training for police officers and carers is another part of the programme. This training helps them respond effectively during incidents.
How Successful Has The Scheme Been?
The scheme has reduced missing person incidents involving dementia patients by over 80%. More than 1,600 individuals have already benefited from it, and its success has inspired similar initiatives in other parts of the UK.
Families involved in the programme report feeling more at ease, knowing their loved ones are safer. Many have shared how these tools have supported them in managing day-to-day care responsibilities.
Who Supports The Scheme?
The programme is funded through donations from organisations such as Bristol Water, Wessex Water, and the Bristol Dementia Action Alliance. These contributions allow the devices to be distributed at no cost for accessibility for families who need them.
Inspector Stuart King said, “The introduction of Bluetooth-enabled devices from Life360 and Tile is a significant step forward in safeguarding those living with dementia. These discreet and user-friendly devices not only offer reassurance to families but can be a critical tool in emergency situations, enabling quick response and timely assistance.
“We are grateful to all the partners who support this scheme and the generous donations that continue to make it possible.”
