For Hometown News
TREASURE COAST - If you are a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, or know someone who is, consider enrolling in the MedicAlert plus, Alzheimer's Association safe return 24-hour nationwide emergency response service.
This service is activated if an individual with Alzheimer's or a related dementia wanders and becomes lost. Caregivers can call the emergency response line to report it.
A community support network will be activated, including local Alzheimer's Association chapters and law-enforcement agencies, to help reunite the family member or caregiver with the person who wandered.
If a citizen or emergency personnel find the member, they can call the toll-free number listed on the member's ID jewelry.
MedicAlert plus safe return will notify the member's listed contacts, making sure the person is returned home.
Currently, scholarship funds are available for the program through the Alzheimer's Association Southeast Florida chapter with the regular $55 fee waived for Treasure Coast patients.
This program includes member's identification jewelry with personalized information and MedicAlert plus safe return's 24-hour emergency toll-free number, a personalized emergency wallet card, 24-hour emergency response service and personal health record.
For more information on call the Alzheimer's Association Southeast Florida chapter at (800) 861-7826, Ext. 502 or visit www.alz.org/seflorida.