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HANNIBAL, MO. -- The Elder Watch Program is designed to assist emergency personnel (Police, fire and ambulance) in responding to calls involving senior citizens by obtaining personal information consisting of medical information (doctors, chronic illnesses, allergies, medications), living will status, resuscitation info., durable power of attorney, relative’s information, social worker or social agency information and who has a key to their residence so that emergency personnel can access it to gain entry in an emergency. 

Often emergency personnel encounter elderly residents who live alone, suffer from dementia and other age related issues which often increase the difficulty in providing service to them.  Family members are not always readily available or in some cases are none existent. 

By obtaining the personal information in advance we (HPD and Marion County 911) can maintain a confidential database of this vital information to be used to provide the utmost level of service. Participation in the program is voluntary and is free of charge to all Hannibal residents.

Those interested in the program will be able to access information on the Hannibal Police Department (HPD) website: www.hannibalpd.com, calling the department at 573-221-0987 or by e-mailing elderwatch@hannibalpd.com.  In addition the Hannibal Regional Hospital and the Hannibal Nutrition Center and Senior Services have agreed to promote the program to their elderly contacts.