Wandering remains a pressing concern for individuals grappling with conditions like autism, dementia, or cognitive impairments. On Monday, April 29, 2024, L.A. FOUND hosted a webinar dedicated to exploring effective strategies for preventing wandering among those with Alzheimer’s, autism, and related cognitive challenges. 

The webinar featured insightful presentations by notable experts, including Kate Movius from Autism Interaction Solutions, David Kochen representing the Aging & Disabilities Department, and Sheriff’s Deputy Dustin Schnakenberg. Following these presentations, attendees had the opportunity to engage with the speakers during a Q&A session. 

Defined as the act of leaving the safety of supervision or a secure environment, wandering—also known as elopement or bolting—poses serious risks, including traumatic incidents, injuries, and tragically, fatalities. Common dangers associated with wandering encompass drowning, vehicular accidents, and potentially harmful encounters with strangers. 

The Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) has forged partnerships with Project Lifesaver and the Sheriff’s Department (LASD) to aid in locating loved ones who have wandered. L.A. FOUND offers a voluntary system that provides free trackable devices for vulnerable individuals. When a person wearing such a device goes missing, LASD mobilizes a specialized team equipped to assist in search and rescue efforts by tracking the device’s signal. 

These collaborative efforts are aimed at achieving three key objectives: safeguarding at-risk individuals from critical missing incidents, swiftly locating missing persons, and identifying individuals who are found but whose identities are unknown. 

For those who missed the webinar, a recording is available for viewing.

Most importantly, mark your calendars for L.A. FOUND’s upcoming Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Webinar scheduled for Monday, June 17 at 11 am.

Dr. Tony Kuo, Director of the Department of Public Health’s Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention Division and Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology in the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) will be sharing valuable insights on early detection strategies and offering advice on championing brain health and supporting loved ones.

For more information on LA Found please visit: ad.lacounty.gov/lafound/