Overview
An 80-year-old man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease caused a stir when he rode a motorcycle for over 80 kilometers from Kota Tinggi to Johor Bahru, even driving in the wrong direction. Fortunately, no accidents occurred during his unexpected journey.
Incident Details
The elderly man, who resides in the Felda Bukit Aping Barat area of Kota Tinggi, took advantage of a moment when his family was not paying attention to ride out on a motorcycle. His son received a call from his brother at around 10:20 AM, informing him that their father had left the house.
While browsing social media, the son was shocked to see a video of his father heading towards Johor Bahru without wearing a helmet. This was reportedly the first time the elderly man had traveled such a long distance since his diagnosis.
Police Involvement
The man was spotted riding in the wrong direction on the road leading to Senai before being intercepted by the police. The Iskandar Puteri police district chief, Assistant Commissioner Gunarajan, confirmed that the police had initiated action upon receiving reports about the elderly man’s behavior.
Public Awareness
This incident highlights the importance of monitoring individuals with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease, to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Families are encouraged to ensure the safety of their loved ones by keeping a close watch on them, especially when it comes to operating vehicles.
Conclusion
The quick response from the police and the community helped avert a potential disaster. As the elderly man continues to navigate his condition, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by families dealing with Alzheimer’s and the need for increased awareness and support.