Email

By Greg Bartlett

GPS tracking systems have provided many different uses, one of which is the element of safety. GPS tracking devices can be set with geo-fences to keep small children and forgetful senior citizens from wandering off.

Seniors Tracking

The state of Indiana is considering mandating the use of GPS tracking devices on senior citizens. There are there are several advantages to this system, such as being able to easily locate anyone who gets lost. The inspiration for this legislation comes from the Silver Alert law. This law gives the police a media alert system when a disabled person or a person with dementia goes missing. This program, which is similar to the Amber Alert program for missing children, has been used a few times since it was started during the summer of 2009. It could be very helpful especially when used with those who already have a record of wandering.

Although the new program might take several years to work its way into the state’s budget, the idea of a GPS tracking system for senior citizens works on the individual level as well. Family members of those with dementia will find it very comforting to know that their loved one is continually being tracked. Geo-fencing capabilities of GPS tracking systems brings the added comfort of being notified if the person being tracked ever strays from home.

Although the Indiana lawmakers are just interested in finding out more information about this possible law, the people of Indiana may not be ready for such a mandate. Experts suggest that the state of Indiana gives this new Silver Alert program some time to work. This is a great program to heavily encourage, but they should not make it a state-wide law.