More Details

Types of Devices
* Locating devices use a transmitter installed in items such as a wristband, shoe sole, or mobile phone. A wristband or shoe sole, for example, can be worn by the person at all times and do not require the person to operate the device in any way. A mobile phone, on the other hand, does require the person to remember to carry it, know how to use it and so on. Depending on the person, this may not be a practical solution.
* Whatever type of device is used, it is carried by the person and relays radio signals back to a receiver that identifies the location of the person. Methods of locating vary with different devices. Some may rely solely on the caregiver to receive a call or alert and start a search. Other devices may offer a more sophisticated system which may include the use of a computer, telephone, mobile phone, call centre operator and/or direct contact with authorities.
* In addition, some systems send out an alert when a boundary is crossed - a predetermined, adjustable 'geofence'.

Global Positioning System (GPS)
* Uses radio signals, transmitted from satellites to electronic receivers to identify the location of a person wearing a transmitter
* Comes in the form of personal devices and are also built into some models of cars
* Relies on battery power but, depending on the sophistication of the device, may also include the use of AC power, computers, internet connections, standard telephone service, mobile phone service and call centre operators
* Is exact to within a few metres
* Is intended for outdoor use but may not be able to pinpoint the location of persons if the satellite signal is affected, for example: under bridges, with electrical interference or in very dense bush
* Typically will not work in buildings, underground or underwater
* Some systems allow the caregiver to track the person using an Internet map while others allow caregivers to define safe boundaries for the person (a signal will be sent if the person goes outside of the set boundaries)

Deciding on a Device
In order to decide what type of device might best serve your needs, consider the following:
* Where will the technology likely be used (in a private residence, a care facility, indoors, outdoors or in multiple locations)?
* Where will a search likely take place (within a building, outdoors, in an urban or a rural area, in a tree covered or open space, near water)?
* Which devices are most appropriate for these settings?
* How much freedom of movement will the device allow?
* If necessary, will the person with dementia be able to use the device?
* Who will be doing the monitoring or locating: family, caregiver, police, outside organisation?
* In addition, you should evaluate the device for user-friendliness, cost, reliability, accessibility, comfort, and whether the device is discreet or invasive and acceptable to the person wearing it.

* Check the following guide from the Alzeihmer Society, Canada for other factors to consider: http://www.alzheimer.ca/~/media/Files/national/Tip-sheets/tipsheet_locating_devices_checklist_e.pdf

Considerations

Ethical Considerations
* In determining if locating devices are appropriate for you or the person you support, the benefits and drawbacks of various technologies must be considered along with the safety needs and the wishes of the person with dementia or intellectual disability.

* It is important to first understand the person's lifelong values and wishes about issues such as personal freedom and dignity, independence and safety. And, it is preferable to know how the person with the device feels about locating and/or other monitoring devices. We suggest people recently diagnosed with dementia and their family members to have these discussions early as one part of planning for the future.

* Prior to deciding whether the use of a locating device is right for you or the person you support, you may want to consider the following questions:
1. Throughout their life, what value has the person put on their freedom and independence versus their safety and security?
2. How do these values influence the decision to use a locating device?
3. What effect, if any, will there be on personal dignity? How important is this?
4. At what point would it be agreeable to start using a locating device?
5. Are there legal issues to consider if the person is no longer able to have input into the decision?

* Some may view wearing a locating device as a way to increase personal freedom and safety while giving family members and caregivers more peace of mind. Others may feel it is an invasion of privacy. As well, relying on a locating device may lead family members or caregivers to check in with the person less frequently. This could lead to less human contact and the person becoming more isolated.
* Making decisions around these issues can be difficult but with inclusion of the person, forethought, early planning, and family discussion, the best possible options can be explored.

Beware when using GPS tracking devices of the following:

* People with dementia should have the opportunity to move about as freely and independently as possible. The balance between independence and safety is delicate. In itself, wandering is not harmful and when done in a safe environment, can be a healthy outlet for a person with dementia. By determining what may be contributing to wandering, you may be able to identify the triggers and find ways to make it safer.

* GPS tracking devices follow a person's movements and identify his location. No device or system can guarantee that a person with dementia or intellectual disability will not get lost or that he will be found. But you may decide to use one to keep him safer.

* Please note: the field of locating devices is highly technical and detailed. Also, the equipment used to support some of these devices (e.g., a computer, smart phone) may not be practical or readily available for some people.

More information available from: http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/Living-with-dementia/Day-to-day-living/Safety/Locating-devices

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.