Abstract The term “critical missing incident” refers to high risk persons with physical, mental and/or emotional conditions that impact their safety should they go missing. Almost two-thirds of adults with dementia-related symptoms go missing at least once. Projected increases in rates of dementia and lack of knowledge about characteristics of critically missing persons, creates urgency in identifying solutions. Recognizing the magnitude of the problem--22% of the 28,000 individuals missing in California resided in Los Angeles County, the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors in 2017 established the Bring Our Loved Ones Homes taskforce. Public-private stakeholders convened to develop strategies to track those at risk for going missing, locate and return them to their families. Building on an extensive scientific literature review; and using a modified-Delphi approach; professionals from diverse sectors (e.g., health, social and protective services, justice) developed a three-year plan that included seventeen strategies across four domains (enhanced coordination, technology solutions, education & training, and social engagement). Strategies were organized within a conceptual framework focused on protecting, locating and identifying those likely to go missing. This poster describes the findings of the 10-month process and offers content for addressing the problem and a planning process for other communities to consider and develop responses that address the burgeoning problem of critical missing persons.
