5 Things Caregivers Should Know About Using AirTags for Dementia Wandering
I’m a fan of using beacons and trackers, such as Apple AirTags and Tile tags, and I use them myself to help keep tabs on my senior loved ones.
But there are some things caregivers should know about using AirTags for dementia wandering, such as how to use them safely, legally, and correctly. Understanding what AirTags can do and where they fall short is key to making the right choice for your situation.
1. AirTags and other Bluetooth trackers like them were designed to track items.
Apple created AirTags to locate personal belongings like keys, wallets, and bags. While some caregivers repurpose them to track loved ones, it’s essential to recognize their limits.
- AirTags don’t offer real-time GPS
- They rely on nearby Apple devices (30-100 ft, depending on environment) to update locations
- They require a battery that generally lasts a year
- They are water-resistant
- They may not be reliable in every environment or emergency
2. They Rely on Other People’s iPhones to Work
AirTags use Bluetooth to send out a secure signal that nearby Apple devices can detect. These devices, whether yours or someone else’s, quietly update the AirTag’s location in your Find My app through Apple’s Find My network, which includes millions of devices.
- They work best in populated areas like neighborhoods and stores where Apple devices are frequently nearby
- They are reliable in rural areas, during car travel, or areas with limited iPhone presence, which are needed to signal the tag’s location
- In less connected areas, the tracker may only show the last known location until a new signal is picked up
Knowing this helps you plan where and how to use AirTags effectively or if they suit your needs. In many cases, they add helpful peace of mind, but for high-risk situations or remote areas, it’s wise to combine them with tools that provide real-time GPS tracking.
3. Placement Matters for Comfort and Effectiveness
Some people with dementia may become anxious or fixated on unfamiliar objects, especially if they feel unusual. The way you place an AirTag matters.
- Choose discreet, comfortable spots like shoes, jacket linings, or sewn-in pouches
- Avoid shiny or bulky holders that could be anxiety provoking
- Don’t place them in RFID-blocking wallets or metal containers (they block the signal)
- If using it in a purse, have at least one backup tag on an item that is more likely to go with the person during an elopement or wandering event.
The goal is to keep the tracker discreet, comfortable, and effective, without adding confusion or distress.
4. Tracking Laws Vary by State
Even when your intention is safety, tracking a person using any device, such as AirTag on their items, can raise legal and ethical issues.
- Most states require verbal or sometimes written consent to use a tracking device.
- If the person cannot consent, legal authority (like guardianship or POA) may be necessary
- Laws differ by state, so it’s best to check your state’s policies or consult an elder law expert
Note: This should not be considered legal advice. As laws vary by state, it’s best to understand the laws in your area or consult an elder law expert to ensure your tracking plan is both safe and compliant. A good place to start is your state’s official government site. Another resource is the Private Use of Location Tracking Devices: State Statutes.
5. AirTags Alone Aren’t Enough for Dementia Wandering Safety
AirTags can ease worry, but they have limitations, and they’re not a complete solution for dementia wandering. Many caregivers use them as one part of a layered safety plan that includes other tools to increase reliability and reduce risk.
Use AirTags with:
- Door and motion alarms
- Smart locks
- Real-time GPS devices
- Cameras for visual reassurance
Every situation is different, but safety can improve when you use multiple methods tailored to your loved one’s habits and needs.
AirTags offer an affordable, easy-to-use tool to help caregivers feel more secure, but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. When used thoughtfully and paired with other tools, they can become part of a reliable, layered safety plan.
The most effective approach to dementia wandering combines your understanding of your loved one with thoughtful decisions and the right mix of supportive technology. Your insight, care, and attention already make a difference, and the right tools can help you do even more.
Looking for next steps?
Explore our Wandering Tech Guide, compare GPS tracker options, or download our free Wandering Prep Kit to start building your personalized safety plan today.
