If Alzheimer's or Dementia is not located within how many minutes of arrival of the primary deputy, the supervisor should respond?

• A. 15 minutes
• B. 30 minutes
• C. 45 minutes
• D. 60 minutes

Answer: (B)

When a person with Alzheimer's or dementia goes missing, time matters and a clear escalation plan helps protect the missing person. The protocol uses a 30-minute window after the primary deputy arrives to determine if the search is progressing toward a successful locate. If the subject isn’t found by then, a supervisor steps in to coordinate more resources and efforts. This escalation ensures the initial deputy has time to conduct an effective quick search—checking last known location, interviewing witnesses, and canvassing nearby areas—while also preventing delays in bringing in additional help when needed.

Thirty minutes is chosen as a practical balance: it allows a focused, efficient initial search, but it triggers prompt escalation to bring in more deputies, K-9 teams, possible air support, and additional agencies or specialized units. Longer thresholds risk the person being in danger longer, while shorter ones might overburden the chain of command with early escalation for routine searches.