Lancashire Police called on the Team to assist with the search for an 86 year old man who was reported missing from a care home in Clitheroe. The man was in the initial stages of dementia, and there was great concern for his safety. He was last seen by staff at the care home at 17:30 that day; he was reported missing to the Police at 23:00.
The Police helicopter made an initial search with negative results.
The Team deployed in several areas and footpaths near the care home to try and search the most obvious directions of travel and possible locations for him. Just as the search was being wound up at 07:30, the Police received a 999 call to the Cement Works. The man had been found there, having walked there then he had spent the night lain there.
Team members: 14
Team hours: 42
Well done, ladies and gentlemen – and dogs! Dementia is such a sad condition. My dad is 90 yrs old and a few months ago went for his usual walk but took a wrong turning and ended up on Waddington Fell. Fortunately he realised he was lost and called at a farm. All ended well but might not have done. Thankfully most people are kind and are more than happy to help but it shows how vulnerable someone with dementia is.
Well done again – you all do an amazing job! Thank you.