Wandering occurs in up to 65% of people with Alzheimer’s Disease at some point. The Take Me Home Program helps at-risk residents get home safely. Community members who need assistance can register here first. When a registered person is missing, call 9-1-1 immediately and tell the dispatcher of their registration. This information will tailor the search and rescue process. So the person will not run away, hide, or become frightened when approached by an officer or Search and Rescue (SAR) Volunteer. If officers or volunteers find the missing person who can’t communicate their address, they can search the database and return the person to their relatives. The program also benefits individuals with autism, Down syndrome, or other cognitive disabilities.
In addition, Assemblymember Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging and Long-Term Care, introduced Bill 2541 (AB 2541) this February. The bill mandates the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) to develop guidelines addressing safety issues related to wandering. POST will collaborate with multiple agencies to submit the protocol by January 1, 2026. It also requires the training of officers in handling wandering cases. The bill has been approved by the Assembly and Senate committees.
Alzheimer’s San Diego participates in the National Night Out event throughout the county annually to educate the community about the Take Me Home program. This year, it will be on August 6 at the following locations: Poway, Vista, Lemon Grove, Valley Center, Rancho San Diego, San Marcos, and South Bay.
