WILTON — A man found walking along a street wearing no protective clothing in 5-degree weather Thursday morning prompted the Police Department to begin a database of townspeople with special needs.

While patrolling and doing routine night security checks at about 1:30 a.m., Officer Matthew Billian found an elderly man stumbling in the roadway. He had no jacket and was wearing only one slipper, Police Chief Heidi Wilcox said. When a NorthStar ambulance arrived to check for injuries, a paramedic recognized the man and knew his family. He was found near his home.

“The officer learned that the man, in his mid-70s, has been experiencing symptoms of dementia. He was released into the care of family members who have been working hard to keep the man living at home,” Wilcox said.

Many families want to keep loved loves at home, she said. Police say there is no fault on the part of the family.

For safety purposes, a database could help police identify a person and obtain information to seek appropriate help in similar incidents. The information in the file would only be used for safety purposes, she said.

“I am proud of my officer’s quick action in this critical situation and grateful to the experienced personnel at NorthStar Ambulance,” Wilcox said.

She said families are welcome to email or submit photos to the Police Department, along with physical descriptions, special concerns and information that will enhance their loved ones’ safety. The database would also include emergency contact information.

Medical histories are not the department’s business, although knowledge of a condition such as diabetes might be helpful, Wilcox said.

For more information, contact the Police Department at 645-3876 or email photos and information to the police chief at: [email protected].

[email protected]