City of Piqua Ohio Police Department Alzheimer's ID Program

The Piqua Police Department, in conjunction with the Miami County Sheriff's Office, is proud to be able to offer the community Project Lifesaver, an electronic tracking system capable of tracking individuals who have physical or developmental conditions that could contribute to their wandering from their residences. Some examples would include those suffering from Alzheimer's, dementia, or those who have physical or developmental disabilities. This would include children and adults.

Project Lifesaver places personalized radio transmitters on the individual that can assist caregivers and local emergency agencies in locating them were they to wander away from their residence. Members of the Project Lifesaver team are specially trained, not only in the use of the electronic tracking equipment, but especially in the methods used to communicate with a person who has Alzheimer's or another related disorder. Locating the individual is only part of the mission. The person who is located will most likely be disoriented, anxious, and untrusting. The Project Lifesaver team knows how to approach the person, gain their trust, and put them at ease for the trip home. Statistics reveal that 59% of people with Alzheimer's disease wander and become lost while 72 % of them are repeat wanderers and 46% of them may die if not found within 24 hours.

The Project Lifesaver search and rescue team is comprised of trained, certified officers. These officers train on a regular basis to keep up to date with the equipment and changes in technology. If the officers are not already working they are on call if a search and rescue is necessary. Deputies from the Miami County Sheriff's Office can also become involved in the search, providing an even better response.

Best of all there is NO COST for those utilizing Project Lifesaver. Funding for Project Lifesaver is a result of private and corporate donations and grants. All of the proceeds are used directly for programs, rescues, and educational expenses. While the cost is free, those wishing to make donations to Project Lifesaver to help ensure the program continues can do so by contacting the Piqua Police Department or the Miami County Sheriff's Office.

Alzheimer's ID

The Piqua Police Department also offers an Alzheimer's ID program for those who do not wish to participate in Project Lifesaver. If you have a family member with Alzheimer's, you can submit a form with information on the family member and a digital photograph. This information can be kept by the department for easy access in the event the family member wanders off and a search is called for.