Bringing Loved Ones Home
Lycoming County United Way is proud to serve as the administrator of Project Lifesaver, a nationally recognized program that provides a timely response to help locate and return loved ones who are prone to wandering due to Alzheimer’s, autism, dementia, or other cognitive conditions.
Project Lifesaver bridges the gap between at-risk individuals and first responders by equipping participants with personalized, trackable technology. The program is designed to offer peace of mind to families and caregivers while enhancing public safety.
How it Works:
- Eligible participants can be referred to Project Lifesaver by their care manager, case worker, parent, or legal guardian by contacting the Lycoming County United Way.
- Parent or Legal Guardian will complete and sign all necessary paperwork.
- Individuals are then connected with their local emergency responder to make an appointment and fitted with a wrist or ankle recovery transmitter that emits a unique tracking signal.
- If a participant goes missing, the caregiver contacts 911. Trained emergency personnel then respond and use the individual’s frequency to help locate and safely return them.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be a resident of Lycoming or Tioga County
- Have a documented diagnosis of a cognitive condition that causes involuntary wandering, such as: Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or other cognitive impairments (please call to discuss.)
- Be at risk for involuntary wandering (not due to defiance or neglect)
- Have a responsible caregiver who will:
- Monitor the device daily
- Ensure the transmitter remains worn and the battery is operational
- Notify 911 immediately if the individual goes missing
- Participate in regular check-ins
Ineligible Circumstances:
The program is not appropriate for individuals who:
- Do not have a qualifying cognitive diagnosis
- Wander voluntarily or in defiance
- Lack committed supervision by parent or guardian