SILVER ALERT

Does you home state have the 'Amber Alert ' ? The answer is probably yes. But, does your state have the 'SILVER ALERT'? From the name, you have already gathered that it concerns our elderly.

Having experienced caring for a parent with Alzheimer's, who disappeared in the middle of the night to walk to the mall on a major highway with no sidewalks, I feel strongly about the need for the 'SILVER ALERT'.

How many times have we joked about the aged being in their second childhood. Well, in some cases, it is applicable. True, the seniors are stronger and more fit than in previous years, but this disease of the brain can't be cured by a gym membership. Like other diseases, it has many causes, heredity, poor nutrition,.... Possibly early detection can postpone the degeneration, but once it has begun there is no stopping it. YET. (I say that with hope)

Check with your state officials and ask if the 'SILVER ALERT' is being put in place. If the answer is 'no', state your case with all the conviction and background information you can muster. Gather your friends to go with you. Be a 'squeaky wheel' if necessary, but don't give up until our parents, grandparents, friends and other loved ones are protected.

Too many times the newspaper reports missing family members who wandered away and were found too late, or never found. Please do what you can to prevent this from happening again. The ' SILVER ALERT ' is a good start.