Community rallies to find elderly man missing from Sunward Park
The community has joined a search for 75-year old Andries Vermaak, who has been missing since Sunday, August 2.
Andries Vermaak, a 75-year-old man with dementia who has been missing from his home in Sunward Park since August 2, is the target of a community search.
Every day at 17:00, locals gather in Sunward Park at the park located between Sonskyn Road and Suikerbekkie Street across from Hoërskool Oosterlig, before searching the streets.
Vermaak has occasionally left the house, but his family has always located him a few hours later. His family’s concern is growing as this is the first time that he has been gone for such a long time.
The search has extended to hospitals, mortuaries, and nursing homes, but they haven’t found him yet.
If anyone spots Vermaak or knows where he is, get in touch with Boksburg SAPS 0118416844 or Cheiere van der Venter on 083 747 6899.
Here are a few tips on keeping vulnerable adults safe:
Vulnerable adults, especially those with dementia or other disorders that could compromise their safety, can be protected in several ways by families and caretakers.
Early identification of risks can be supported through safe care arrangements, compassionate support and regular check-ins.
Families should also remain alert to warning signs such as unexplained injuries, withdrawal, fear, neglect, unusual behaviour or sudden changes in financial circumstances.
More protection could also be offered by a safety tracker that is specifically designed and based on consent.
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Appropriate choices consist of:
- A medical bracelet or wristband.
- A pendant with an SOS button, as long as there isn’t a potentially hazardous loose cable.
- A wristband or belt clip that is secure.
- A tracker made for an insole or shoe.
- A tracker that is solely used as a backup and fastened to clothing or a bag.
Families are encouraged to go with a gadget with emergency alerts, GPS, dependable coverage and a long battery life.
The user should be informed about how the tracker will be used and who can access their whereabouts.
Regular device inspections and responsible handling of location data are necessary to safeguard the individual’s privacy.
Human supervision and a secure home environment should never be replaced by tracking.
