An elderly couple was discovered following a search operation after they absconded from their care facility reportedly due to dissatisfaction with their living conditions. Colin, 89, and Claudette Geraghty, 83, left Ryman Nellie Melba Retirement Village in south-east Melbourne on Saturday morning. They were seen at the Glenn Shopping Centre purchasing medication before departing in their white 2015 Mazda 2 around midday.
Concern arose when their neighbor, Sharon Jeikishore, attempted to check on them in the afternoon but received no response. The couple’s daughter, Linda McKelvie, was especially worried as Colin has Alzheimer’s and Claudette has vascular dementia with seizures.
After being missing for approximately 32 hours, the couple was eventually located in Maryborough, north-west of Melbourne, on Sunday night. Linda expressed her belief that their discontent with the care facility, where they had recently moved, led to their escape.
Prior to this incident, authorities were informed when the couple initially tried to flee the care home. Linda mentioned that the sudden transition from respite care was challenging for them, as they felt their autonomy was being restricted. Colin and Claudette, who have been married for 65 years since meeting on a dancefloor, received messages from Linda on the day they left the facility.
In one of the messages, Colin reassured Linda, saying, “Don’t worry, thank you for your help, I’ll make sure I look after her.” Linda pleaded with her parents to return to the care home, expressing the family’s deep concern for their safety.
