The Health Ministry is examining the introduction of GPS-enabled tracking devices for people living with dementia, in an effort to address the frequent wandering incidents reported across several communities. The discussion returns at a time when concerns are increasing over elderly individuals leaving their homes without the ability to seek help.
The proposal under review includes wristbands or smartwatches equipped with an SOS button and GPS location services. The need for such a tool is linked to recurring cases in which people with dementia become disoriented, move away from familiar areas or are unable to communicate their situation. Police searches, alerts to local councils and repeated reports from families highlight the lack of structured supervision and support services in many regions. The rise in dementia cases in recent years further intensifies the challenge, with representatives of the House of Elders recently warning MPs that symptoms now appear even before the age of 60.
Subject to medical assessment
This is not the first time the introduction of tracking devices has been considered. Responding to a parliamentary question from AKEL MP Nikos Kettiros, Health Minister Michalis Damianou noted that the matter will be re-examined by the Dementia Committee, which is currently being reconstituted. The measure may also be incorporated into the updated National Dementia Action Plan.
According to the ministry, devices would be provided only following medical evaluation and prescription by neurologists or psychiatrists, ensuring they are allocated to diagnosed patients. To determine initial needs, data may be drawn from NGOs active in the field, the Department for Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities and treating physicians.
Dementia not recognised as a disability
The need to re-establish the Dementia Committee and develop a more comprehensive support strategy was underscored during a recent session of the House Health Committee.
Representatives of the House of Elders presented information describing the reality many patients and families face. A significant number of elderly people with dementia continue to live without home care, without professional supervision and with limited access to health services, particularly in mountainous and remote areas. The absence of organised care structures and systematic monitoring mechanisms increases risks, while families report growing difficulties in meeting daily care needs.
The burden extends beyond the patients themselves: caregivers often shoulder full responsibility for daily supervision without adequate support or specialised training. The constant need for vigilance, especially in advanced dementia, creates substantial psychological and physical strain on families who must manage without respite services.
At the same time, dementia is not officially recognised as a disability, excluding patients from targeted allowances and specialised support. Cases were also presented of elderly individuals living alone and relying solely on informal carers or relatives, while the cost of private care remains particularly high, making access to services financially out of reach for many.