In plain English
GPS locator devices substantially reduce risk for people with dementia who go out alone or who may wander. Several discreet form factors are available. The decision to use one is best made together while capacity allows.
Why GPS locators matter
Around 40 per cent of people with dementia go missing at some point. Most are found within hours, but the risk of harm during a missing episode (cold, falls, road traffic) is real. A GPS locator provides:
- Real-time location to the family;
- Geo-fencing alerts if the person leaves a defined area;
- A means of finding the person if they are missing;
- Reassurance allowing safer continued independence.
Types of device
Keyring locators
Small (smaller than a matchbox), discreet, attached to keys or a bag. Battery life typically 2 to 7 days. Examples: Trackimo, PocketFinder, Yepzon.
Watches and bracelets
Wrist-worn devices with two-way calling, fall detection and GPS. Examples: Buddi, Lively Mobile, Tunstall. Look and feel of a normal watch.
Shoe insert devices
Inserted into the shoe; the person is unaware of the device. Examples: GPS SmartSole.
Pendants
Combine GPS with a pendant alarm and fall detector. Usually paired with a 24-hour monitoring centre.
Smartphones
Modern smartphones with Find My iPhone (Apple) or Family Link (Android) act as GPS locators if the person carries their phone consistently.
Choosing a device
Considerations:
- Discreet appearance: how the person feels about the device;
- Battery life: shorter battery means more frequent charging;
- Charging method: a stand makes daily charging easier than plugging in a cable;
- Two-way calling: some devices allow speaking to the person via the device;
- Geo-fencing: alerts when the person leaves a defined area;
- Fall detection: useful for older or frail users;
- Subscription cost: most devices require a monthly subscription for cellular connectivity;
- App for family: ease of use for the family member.
Cost
Devices typically cost £50 to £200, with monthly subscriptions of £5 to £20. Some local authorities subsidise devices through telecare or assistive technology schemes. Some Alzheimer's Society and Age UK areas offer free or subsidised pilot schemes.
The ethics
GPS tracking raises legitimate ethical questions:
- Where the person has capacity, the decision is theirs. Discuss openly, explaining the trade-off between privacy and safety;
- Where capacity is impaired, a best-interests decision under the Mental Capacity Act applies, balancing safety, autonomy and the least restrictive option;
- Most families find that a discreet locator supports rather than restricts independence;
- The data should be accessible only to the carer(s) and the person, not shared more widely.
Hiding a device (such as a shoe insert) raises additional ethical concerns. Discussion with the person while capacity allows is preferable.
The Herbert Protocol
Alongside a GPS device, register with the Herbert Protocol through your local police force. The pre-registered information speeds up the police response if the person goes missing.
If the person goes missing
- Check the GPS location immediately;
- Search the immediate area;
- Check known places the person may go;
- Call 999 promptly; do not wait. Provide the GPS location;
- Stay reachable on the phone.
UK suppliers
- Buddi (UK manufacturer, watch and pendant);
- Tunstall (telecare specialist);
- Lively (US, available in UK);
- SmartSole (shoe insert);
- Yepzon (keyring locator);
- Trackimo (keyring locator);
- Local authority and Alzheimer's Society partnerships in some areas.
Frequently asked questions
Is GPS tracking legal?
Yes, where the person agrees while capacity allows. If capacity is impaired, a best-interests decision under the Mental Capacity Act applies.
Will the device work indoors?
GPS works less well indoors. Some devices use wifi positioning and mobile-tower triangulation indoors. Battery life is usually shorter when GPS lock is difficult.
Can the police use the GPS data?
Yes. When a person is reported missing, the family can share GPS location with the police, which substantially speeds up the search.
Are there subsidised options?
Some local authorities provide devices through telecare or assistive technology schemes. Some Alzheimer's Society and Age UK regions offer free pilots. Contact your local council and charity to check.
Does my parent need to wear it?
Devices vary. A pendant or watch needs to be worn. A keyring needs to be carried. A shoe insert can be inserted without the person being aware. Choose what suits the individual.
References
- Alzheimer's Society. Assistive technology and dementia.
- Mental Capacity Act 2005.
- Wandering and dementia: literature review. Dementia 2018.
- Herbert Protocol (UK police forces).