Why this matters
A person who becomes lost is at risk of exposure, traffic injury, and dehydration. Rapid response matters most in the first hours.
Warning signs
- Talking about going home or going to work
- Pacing near doors in the late afternoon
- Attempting to leave at night
- Getting lost during a walk or drive
What families can do
- Add door chimes, alarms, or motion sensors
- Place locks out of the usual line of sight
- Register with local police programs and consider a locating device
- Keep a current photo and written physical description ready
- Inform neighbors and nearby businesses
- Provide a daily structured walk
When to get help
- Call 911 immediately if the person is missing — do not wait
- Report any new wandering to the clinician for evaluation of triggers
Related resources
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Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.