Individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, autism or other medical conditions which involve memory loss or confusion, may wander away from their home. In these situations, police officers are called to assist in locating them. In addition, officers may come across individuals who are lost but have not been reported as such. Time is a critical factor in safely locating missing persons, especially in dangerous weather conditions. Prompt dissemination of information about the missing person to the police and the public is essential. Providing necessary information to the police in advance may result in a timelier reunification. 

The LOST program consists of an ICPD database that contains information about the person including name, address, physical description, birth date and a photograph. It also includes information about the potential activities of the person, where they may be heading or where they have been found when lost previously and what symptoms they may exhibit when located by the police officer. Additional information can include communication differences or techniques, unusual behaviors, sensory needs, triggers and ways to effectively interact with the individual.