← Help in Grant County

An older person seems confused, lost or wandering

Use when an older adult seems lost or confused, can't say where they live, or is wandering outside alone, maybe because of dementia or a medical problem.

In danger right now: call 911. Crisis or thoughts of suicide: call or text 988. Not sure where to start? Call the Silver City Gospel Mission: 575-388-5071. Police, fire or sheriff, not an emergency: 575-388-8840 (Central Dispatch). Print our list of phone numbers →
These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.

1Check for danger first

Hurt, fallen, very cold or hot, near traffic, or can't stand: call 911 now.
Sudden confusion can be a stroke or another emergency. Face drooping, a weak arm, or slurred speech: call 911.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7

2Stay calm and stay with them

You can say"Hi, my name is ___. You look like you could use a hand. Can I help?"
Speak slowly. Use short, simple words. Ask one question at a time.
You can ask"What is your name? Who can I call for you?"
You can ask"May I look for a name or phone number, like on a bracelet or a card in your wallet?"
If they want to drive and seem confused, call 911.

3Get help finding their family

Grant County Regional Dispatch Authority
Non-emergency dispatch (police, sheriff, fire)
575-388-8840
Silver City · 24/7

4If they seem to live alone without help

Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services
1-866-654-3219
Silver City (address shared by phone) · Report line 24/7 at 1-866-654-3219. Silver City office (575-534-0832) Mon-Fri 8:00-5:00.
Use the guide "A senior or disabled adult is being neglected, abused or taken advantage of".

5Help for the family afterward

Alzheimer's Association - New Mexico Chapter
24/7 dementia helpline, care consultation and caregiver support groups
800-272-3900
Las Cruces · 24/7
NM Aging & Long-Term Services - Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
Senior and disability help line (Medicare/SHIP counseling)
800-432-2080
· Mon-Fri 7:45am-5pm
Silver Adult Care Services (SACS)not yet confirmed: call first
Friday caregiver respite for adults with dementia
575-388-1319
Silver City · Fridays, 4 hours (call for times)
Use the guide "Caring for an aging parent, or a senior who can't get out".

This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer

Know a better way? Is something out of date?

If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.

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Print these steps · Find more places to get help · Hours and numbers change; please call ahead. Something wrong? Tell us
Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City, 575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.