Bluetooth/Other Tracking Devices in SA?

seanbaussie on 06/03/2018 - 23:03
Last edited 07/03/2018 - 11:33

Hi,

I've been watching technology over the last couple of years to try and help a family member who goes missing every few months. Long story but it involves mental health issues that aren't serious enough to have them need a locked environment but it'd sure be helpful if they could be found when they wander.

I know there's basically 2 options
* Trackr or the like that rely on enough people using them and having Bluetooth turned on, but which rarely need recharging.
* Wifi/data/Sim card devices that are always on but usually need a plan and need recharging regularly.

Cost wise and because I know the device is v unlikely to get recharged I'm not keen on option 2.
Has anyone tried Trackr or the like in Australia (even better if in SA)? I'm just not sure if enough people are using it to make it useful??

EDIT: just for clarification, the person involved lives a primarily 'regular' existence apart from when affected by this condition. They can live by themselves, travel, do life etc. The issue arises when - for a multitude of reasons - they go wandering.

Electrical & Electronics

Comments

  • No Username on 06/03/2018 - 23:11
    +2

    Can't you just track theme through Find my iPhone or Android Device Manager? Or do they not own a phone?

    • seanbaussie on 07/03/2018 - 07:25

      Same problem as the second option above, once it goes flat it's not helpful anymore (or if it's not on them).

  • Diji1 on 06/03/2018 - 23:30

    ankle monitor.

    • seanbaussie on 07/03/2018 - 07:25

      Not funny.

      • mskeggs on 07/03/2018 - 10:18

        If the person is largely home bound, there are solutions which produce an alert when they leave a certain perimeter. This might be a better approach than trying to locate them after the fact?

  • singlemalt72 on 07/03/2018 - 08:10
    +2

    It's a growing field of tech, often called "Wandering Management".

    THere are a lot of devices available in the US, tend to be quite pricey though, have a look here to start;
    https://www.alzheimers.net/8-8-14-location-devices-dementia/

    • seanbaussie on 07/03/2018 - 11:36

      Great link thanks. Unfortunately it sort of confirmed what I thought, that the most useful devices need recharging every 2 days to 2 weeks.
      What I really want is a long life battery with tracking capacity. Or something that could be remotely turned on when needed - hadn't thought of that one before but it'd be great…

  • Quantumcat on 07/03/2018 - 22:15

    Maybe something like this https://www.twistedwristwear.com
    If they have a nurse or something visit regularly they could take care of charging it.

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