GPS technology helping better Alzheimer's care

One of the biggest concerns for those providing care for family members with Alzheimer's disease is having them wander away. CBS4 reports that the Alzheimer's Association is offering new technology that may reduce the risk of losing track of an elderly loved one.


According to the news source, the program uses GPS technology to track an individual, allowing their caregiver to view their location on a computer.

One such user is Jan Charter, who says that it has been a big help in her effort to make sure that her husband Ed, who is in the early stages of the mental illness, is safe. The technology allows Ed to keep a smartphone with him - which gives his location to his wife.


"It makes me feel a little safer because since I can't drive and I can't go look for him at least I can find him," Charter told the news provider.


According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, around 5.3 million Americans currently suffer from Alzheimer's disease, and that number may reach 11 million by 2050.


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