Hartlepool family backs use of trackers for those with dementia

The family of a man with dementia who was found in a ditch after going missing for two days have urged others to use trackers to keep loved ones safe.

Brian Jobson, from Seaton Carew in Hartlepool, wandered off from his home on Christmas Day and became confused when everywhere was shut.

A police helicopter and drones were used to try to find him, with many people cancelling their plans to join the search.

His daughter Kirsty Jewson said: “If we could turn back the clock, dad would have had a tracker. We would have known where he was and avoided the all the stress and emotional turmoil.”

The 75-year-old was diagnosed with vascular dementia 10 years ago and had not gone missing from his home before.

After spending Christmas morning with his daughter, unbeknown to his family he went for a walk into Seaton Carew and became confused and disoriented.

His daughter said it was a traumatic time for everyone and she believed she would never see her dad again.

“We knew he’d be scared, cold and hungry,” Jewson said. “I didn’t think there was a chance he would ever find his way back.”

His family said Cleveland Police’s response was excellent, but despite a large search there was only one confirmed sighting of him.

The pensioner was found by a member of the public on 27 December, resting and keeping warm in a ditch at Park View Industrial Estate.

Jewson said her dad was a “tough cookie” who only suffered a few minor scratches during his ordeal.

She said technology had advanced so much that it was now easy to monitor someone and see where they were.

In its advice for carers of people with dementia at risk of going missing, Cleveland Police says technology such as tracking devices and door sensors can help keep them safe.