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The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has partnered with the newly formed Foothills Alzheimer’s / Dementia Support Group to establish a registration process for dementia patients that may wander off.

Once reported missing, a “Silver Alert” (similar to an Amber Alert) will be activated. It is important that a registration form with a current photograph of the loved one is filled out and on hand at the Sheriff’s Office. This information will facilitate the search effort for the wanderer.

A “scent jar”(used to create a noticeable scent associated with the loved one) is held in the home. The unique scent will assist the dog in tracking the missing person. “Scent Jars” are available at no cost from the Support Group.

The Foothills Alzheimer’s / Dementia Support Group is a new organization with the mission of supporting caregivers of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. The Caregivers Support Group meets on the last Wednesday of the month from 3 to 4 p.m. at the Meeting Place, located at 75 Carmel Lane in Columbus.

For more information or to obtain a “scent jar” kit please call Peggy Wyllie at (828) 859-6339.

 

Submitted by Dennis Lanahan