Exeter Police Implement Program for Those with Alzheimer's Disease and Special Needs

Town of Exeter New Hampshire Official Website

  Chief William Shupe announces that the Exeter Police Department has implemented a program designed to help protect those with Alzheimer's Disease and special needs in the community.

The initiative is part of the department's mission to protect the lives of all by creating a system where police can rapidly respond to a situation where a person wanders off, gets lost or has a medical emergency.

"We want to ensure that if someone from one of our vulnerable populations goes missing, or is in need of medical attention, that we can find or help that person as quickly as possible," Chief Shupe said. "This program is truly one of value and will help residents feel at ease knowing that their loved ones are being taken care of in the event of an emergency."

Individuals caring for someone living in Exeter who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, is an elderly person who tends to wander or get lost, or is someone with special needs, are encouraged to sign up for the program.

To do so, residents should visit the Exeter Police Department online to fill out the form and return it to the station. Necessary info will need to be provided to help police identify the person, such as height, weight, hair and eye color. Additionally, citizens should list emergency contacts, relevant medical information (preferred hospital, primary care physician, allergies and medications) and attach a photo I.D. of the person if possible.

If the individual becomes lost, call the Exeter Police Department immediately at 603-772-1212and notify officers that the resident is a participant in the program.