Los Angeles County Launches Smartwatch Initiative for Tracking Missing Persons

Los Angeles County has introduced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the safety of individuals with cognitive impairments, including Alzheimer’s and autism. During an event on October 15, 2025, officials unveiled the Theora Care Smartwatch, a GPS-enabled device designed to assist caregivers in tracking those who may wander away from safe environments.

The initiative is rooted in personal tragedy. Kirk Moody, a member of the L.A. Found Taskforce, shared his heartbreaking experience of losing his wife, Nancy Paulikas, who had early onset Alzheimer’s. In 2016, she went missing from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and her remains were discovered in 2018, over two years later. Moody’s story underscores the urgent need for effective tracking solutions for vulnerable individuals.

At the event held in Gloria Molina Grand Park, Moody highlighted the advancements in technology that the county is now implementing. The Theora Care Smartwatch provides real-time location tracking and alerts caregivers through a smartphone app if the wearer strays from a designated safe zone. The device also includes an SOS button for emergencies, making it a significant improvement over traditional search methods.

So far, the program has distributed several dozen smartwatches at no cost to families caring for individuals with cognitive conditions. This initiative aims to address the growing challenges faced by caregivers. More than 190,000 older adults in Los Angeles County suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia, and approximately 1 in 22 children in California are diagnosed with autism.

Enhanced Tracking for Vulnerable Populations

The introduction of this technology promises to streamline search efforts for those who go missing. According to LASD Commander Geff Deedrick, the smartwatch technology significantly narrows down search zones, often to a single address. This efficiency can prove crucial, especially in cases where individuals are drawn to water, a common risk for individuals with autism.

Deedrick stated, “By having this technology that enables us to track them, we can get to them more quickly and stop them from the risk of drowning.” Such preventative measures are imperative, considering that nearly 91% of wandering deaths for individuals with autism are due to drowning.

At the event, various speakers emphasized the importance of this initiative. Janet Hahn, Fourth District LA County Supervisor, remarked on the peace of mind this program offers families: “Every family member or caregiver deserves the peace of mind knowing your loved one will be found if they go missing.” Hahn co-authored the motion that launched L.A. Found in 2018, aimed at addressing the needs of those with cognitive disabilities.

Personal Experiences Highlight the Need for Technology

Personal stories shared at the event illustrated the real-world impact of the smartwatch initiative. Jordan Nichole Wall, a 27-year-old from Chatsworth with Down syndrome, has experienced instances of wandering, prompting her mother, Mary Brown, to seek solutions. Brown recounted a time when Wall went missing at the beach, emphasizing that a device like the smartwatch could have drastically reduced search time.

Similarly, Janet Rivera, who cares for her mother with dementia and her son with cognitive disabilities, expressed relief in having the smartwatch. Rivera noted, “For us parents, with a son with special needs and a mom with dementia, it is a lot about the peace of mind we get.” The ability to know a loved one’s location can significantly alleviate anxiety for families.

As the L.A. Found program continues to distribute these devices, it aims to expand its reach to more families in need. The integration of modern technology into the care and safety of vulnerable individuals marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by cognitive impairments.

For those interested in the program or seeking to apply for a smartwatch, further information can be found at ad.lacounty.gov/LAFOUND or by calling 1-833-569-7651. The initiative represents a hopeful advancement in the ongoing efforts to protect and support individuals with cognitive disabilities.