‘Wander’ systems based on GPS present accuracy problems in urban areas and in facility use. The new EmSeeQ from EmFinders (’em’ for ’emergency) uses GSM M2M cellular technology to locate a person with dementia, Down Syndrome or similar conditions within 10-20 feet in urban areas, and 1000 feet in rural areas. This bracelet looks considerably less clunky than GSM models as well. If the person is lost, the caregiver alerts the EmSeeQ center which then can alert police. Cost is $225 with a $25/month service plan for connectivity. NY Times article. Website.
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EmSeeQ
It is interesting to see how GSM location is developing, the challenge in markets outside the US is that GSM location is still very inaccurate. For example our Vega device already transmits all the data needed to support this location protocol but in the UK and Europe commercial GSM location is at best accurate to hundreds of metres and in rural areas thousands of metres.
Another observation is that 1000 feet does not sound a large area, but if you are looking for somebody who is unable to repsond it can be a long search. For these reasons I think GPS is going to be around as the primary location technology in Europe for some time to come.