Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the study?
Locating Technology may be used to help locate or find people who wander and become lost. We need to understand how well the existing technology works and what is needed as the technology is developed. The secondary aim of the project is to provide families and caregivers with knowledge and education concerning the different approaches that are available and their relative merits in individual circumstances.
Who is doing this research?
This project is a collaboration between the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University and the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS). The project will be undertaken through Accessibly Yours (AY), the School's consultation arm. AY aims to enhance environments for the purpose of facilitating individuals in their search for living well and participating in their communities.
Why is this research important?
Initial information indicates that there are substantial numbers of citizens at risk of wandering. For example, the RCMP reports between 10-12,000 such individuals within the province of New Brunswick alone. This research is focused on determining the advantages and disadvantages of various technologies that may improve the safety and security of individuals who have difficulty communicating or problem-solving. These individuals may have Alzheimer's disease, pervasive developmental disorder, or other developmental disabilities which cause them to wander.
How is the research being conducted?
The research is divided into two phases. The first phase involved a technical evaluation and field testing of all locating technologies that were offered for study. Phase 2 involves ‘Consumer Trials' which will test those technologies that met the success criteria identified in Phase 1. In addition, Phase 2 will hold ‘Consumer Panels' where the technologies will be presented to individuals and their caregivers in order to receive feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of the technologies.
How can you participate in the study?
At this stage of the project, we are recruiting individuals who wander and/or their caregivers to participate in a Consumer Panel. We encourage you to consider taking part in this important study. Your contribution will help us to understand and relieve the stress caused by wandering behaviour.
The following are the dates and locations of the consumer panels.
June 26th ~ Sheraton Hotel
116 King Street W.
Hamilton , ON
June 28th ~ Radisson Hotel
55 Hallcrown Place
Toronto , ON
July 3rd ~ Holiday Inn
1498 Venetian Blvd
Sarnia , ON
July 5th ~ Holiday Inn
1696 Regent Street
Sudbury , ON
July 6th ~ Lord Elgin Hotel
100 Elgin Street
Ottawa
If you are interested and are available to attend a panel, please contact Nicole Grochowina at (905) 525-9140 ext. 26896 to register.
What is the cost to participate?
Please note that all reasonable costs will be covered including: personal attendant care if required, mileage, telephone calls, etc.
Important last thoughts
Locating technology is evolving at a rapid pace. Your participation is key in helping to guide manufacturers and service providers in the development of technologies that assist people who have a potential to wander.
Click here for more information about the study and how you can participate |