To buy DF a phone to track him?

[AfunaMbatata]

My father (DF) has a condition that can cause him to sometimes become unfamiliar with places leading him to get lost and confused.
WIBU to buy him a phone with location tracker on so I can keep an eye on him when out and about? Was also thinking of adding it to my uber so he can send for a taxi/ I can send one out when he sees in times of distress and lost?

My siblings have said that it's a bit intrusive though and well, they don't like the idea of it. They do not care for him though, never visit, wouldn't know if he was alive or dead if I didn't tell them etc.

So...AIBU? (I'd ask DF permission of course and I'm sure he'd agree but he is likely to forget he has..)

Would he remember to take it out with him ?

I'm wondering if he might be better with a gps watch

Good idea. It is a tool to help him (and you). No need to tell your siblings if they never see him.

I would. Speaking as someone who had to go through four months of not knowing where a relative with dementia was. Absolutely horrendous situation. I'd rather be slightly intrusive than that.

Thanks for the replies, I was doubting the idea .
He will get used to taking it out and about (just have to leave notes by the door), or it will live in his inside coat pocket . The GPS watch is a great idea though, I might get both!

Is it a condition that is unrelated to age I.e is he elderly or not? It may be that because he is not elderly they see it as intrusive rather than protective, if that makes sense.

If he's vulnerable and in agreement, it's a very good idea.
You can get GPS tracker insoles for shoes too, so they are less likely to be forgotten to be put on.
insoles

There are types of assistive technology made for people with dementia that include a tracker. Phone your local age uk or social services department they can probably point you in the right direction. Depending on where you are some local authorities run schemes for you to purchase it at a subsidised rate or if the level of need is high it is sometimes free of charge. But you would need to check that.

It's more on the pricey side but you could do something like an Apple Watch? That way he can get uber on it and still be tracked?

GPS insoles! - rather great as he has a habit of trying to walk outdoors naked but always puts his shoes on

It's not related to age, siblings are a bit 'tin foil hat' - think "they" might be watching

Anyway, I've decided to do it and buy some GPS gear, it'll help me feel more relaxed.

It's a good idea if a) he consents and b)would remember to use it. It could be falsley reassuring if he leaves it at home.

Get a tile - https://www.thetileapp.com/?opt=&utmcampaign=sbgtb-acqlowsnewbrand-corealscintl-ukexact&utmsource=google&utmmedium=cpc&utmcontent=205091138346&utmterm=tile-e&adgroup=58700002488845454&tactic=&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI7ZaIhf371QIV7rtCh0sMAC0EAAYASAAEgKAeDBwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CNa83Iv9-9UCFRqMUQodIbQC_g

Not sure why the link is that long!
Hope it works if not google Tile, attach them to keys, phone, bikes in wallets and you can locate anything...

I don't work for them, just have found mine so useful and the app gives an accurate location map.

So your DF has a medical condition that makes him a vulnerable adult and you either by choice or default are responsible for his welfare. I'd seriously consider getting an assessment under the Care Act for him from Adult Social Services. Then he would have a written plan of what support has been put in place to keep him independent and safe. The local police to me actually recommend trackers for vulnerable adults, they work with adult services and have quickly located several 'missing' people.

If your df receiving support from ss? He should be as he would be counted as vulnerable.
As for the tracker if your df is happy go for it. As long as he remembers it