If a person living with dementia goes missing and may be in danger, call 999 promptly. Say they have dementia, when and where they were last seen, and what they were wearing. AIC says families do not have to wait 24 hours to make a missing-person report when they believe the person is vulnerable or at risk. Singapore Police Force missing-person reporting routes AIC caregiver guide on wandering and missing persons
Keep a recent photo ready. If others can help safely, ask them to check familiar places or speak to someone who last saw the person while you contact Police. Keep a single family contact reachable and share confirmed updates with Police. AIC caregiver guide on wandering and missing persons Dementia Singapore resource kit
- Tell Police about dementia and any urgent medical or mobility needs.
- Give the last confirmed location, time, clothing and a recent photo.
- Keep one caregiver reachable and notify Police when the person is found.
On this page
Put the details Police can act on first
Give the person’s name, age and last confirmed location and time. Describe shoes, clothing and any walking aid. Mention places they used to visit regularly, routes they know and whether they carry a contact card or phone. State whether they may have trouble answering questions or finding their way home. AIC caregiver guide on wandering and missing persons Dementia Singapore resource kit
If someone reports seeing them, write down the time, exact location and direction of travel. Tell Police which details are confirmed. Ask family members to share sightings with the designated contact so the information reaches the same person.
When they are found
Approach calmly and say who you are. Check whether they are injured or need medical help, and reassure them. Notify Police and anyone helping to look so they know the search can end. AIC caregiver guide on wandering and missing persons
A neighbourhood example
A caregiver notices a relative is missing after a walk. One adult calls Police and provides the clothing and a photograph. A neighbour checks the familiar bus stop and reports the last confirmed sighting. The caregiver passes the time and location to Police.
Frequently asked questions
What if I have no recent photo?
Report the situation promptly and give the clearest description you can. Send an available photo and explain when it was taken. Singapore Police Force missing-person reporting routes Dementia Singapore resource kit
Can I report at a police centre?
SPF lists calling 999 or visiting a Neighbourhood Police Centre for missing persons. Call 999 when immediate assistance is needed. Singapore Police Force missing-person reporting routes
Sources
- Singapore Police Force missing-person reporting routes
- AIC caregiver guide on wandering and missing persons
- Dementia Singapore resource kit