In the United States, what is a Turquoise Alert has become a frequently asked question as more states adopt this new emergency alert system designed to protect vulnerable adults with cognitive impairments or developmental disabilities. As of November 2025, the Turquoise Alert program continues to expand across the country, reflecting growing awareness of the urgent need to locate missing adults who may not qualify under existing Amber or Silver Alerts.
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The Origin and Purpose of the Turquoise Alert
The Turquoise Alert was created to address a specific gap in the nation’s emergency response systems. While Amber Alerts are issued for abducted children and Silver Alerts are designed for missing senior citizens, many adults with autism, dementia, or traumatic brain injuries were not covered by either category.
To bridge this gap, several U.S. states began implementing Turquoise Alerts beginning in 2023. The color turquoise was chosen to symbolize calmness, awareness, and safety for individuals who live with cognitive challenges. The goal is simple: to quickly notify the public when an at-risk adult is missing so that communities can help locate them safely.
How a Turquoise Alert Works
When a qualifying individual goes missing, law enforcement agencies can request a Turquoise Alert through state authorities. Once approved, the alert is distributed via multiple channels, including:
- Television and radio broadcasts
- Highway message signs
- Smartphone emergency notifications
- Social media platforms
- Local law enforcement networks
The alert includes critical identifying information such as the individual’s name, age, last known location, and a physical description. In some cases, vehicle details or photos are also shared to help the public identify the missing person more easily.
Recent Updates and State Adoption
As of November 2025, Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Arizona are among the states that have formally adopted or piloted Turquoise Alert programs. Several others—including Georgia, California, and Ohio—are reviewing legislation to establish similar systems.
- Florida’s Program: Signed into law in 2024, Florida’s Turquoise Alert system became operational in early 2025. It focuses on adults 18 and older with intellectual or developmental disabilities who go missing and are believed to be in danger.
- Texas Expansion: Texas expanded its alert protocols in mid-2025 to include individuals with cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism spectrum disorder, and severe brain injuries.
- National Attention: Following multiple successful recoveries in Florida and Texas, national advocacy groups have urged Congress to explore federal coordination for Turquoise Alerts, much like the Amber Alert system is managed nationally.
This growing momentum shows that the Turquoise Alert is no longer an experimental program—it’s becoming a vital part of the nation’s public safety network.
Key Differences from Other Alert Systems
| Alert Type | Target Group | Launch Year | Color Symbolism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amber Alert | Abducted children under 18 | 1996 | Yellow for caution |
| Silver Alert | Missing seniors (often with dementia) | 2005 | Silver for aging and wisdom |
| Turquoise Alert | Missing adults with cognitive disabilities | 2023 | Turquoise for calmness and awareness |
This clear distinction ensures that each alert type reaches the right audience and helps authorities act quickly. The Turquoise Alert fills a critical void, ensuring that adults who might not meet the Amber or Silver criteria still receive immediate, widespread attention.
Why the Turquoise Alert Matters
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6.9 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s disease, and millions more experience other forms of cognitive impairment. Adults with autism or mental health conditions can also wander or become disoriented. When these individuals go missing, time is crucial — the first few hours are often the most critical for recovery.
The Turquoise Alert empowers communities to act fast. By broadcasting detailed information to millions of residents, these alerts significantly increase the likelihood of safe recoveries. In recent cases reported in Florida and Texas, several individuals were found within hours of the alert being issued — a clear testament to the program’s effectiveness.
Public Response and Awareness Efforts
Public reaction to the Turquoise Alert system has been overwhelmingly positive. Many advocacy organizations, including Autism Speaks, The Arc, and National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), have endorsed the initiative. Social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram have also played a crucial role in sharing Turquoise Alerts quickly, often reaching thousands of users within minutes.
Several states are now conducting educational campaigns to inform residents about recognizing and responding to Turquoise Alerts. These efforts encourage citizens to remain alert, check on vulnerable neighbors, and report sightings immediately.
Challenges and Future Improvements
Despite its success, the Turquoise Alert system faces some challenges:
- Inconsistent Adoption: Not all states have adopted the alert yet, leading to uneven protection across the country.
- Public Confusion: Some people mistake Turquoise Alerts for Silver Alerts, highlighting the need for continued education.
- Technology Integration: Certain rural areas lack the digital infrastructure for quick notifications, slowing alert distribution.
To address these issues, several lawmakers and federal agencies are exploring the possibility of a national Turquoise Alert framework that would unify standards, streamline communication, and provide funding for state programs.
Looking Ahead
As awareness grows, experts predict that by 2026, most U.S. states will have established or will be developing Turquoise Alert systems. The ongoing expansion underscores the country’s commitment to protecting all vulnerable individuals, regardless of age.
The success stories emerging from early adopters demonstrate how community involvement, modern technology, and clear communication can save lives. When a Turquoise Alert is issued, it’s not just a message—it’s a call for compassion, vigilance, and unity.
How the Public Can Help
If you ever receive a Turquoise Alert notification:
- Pay attention to the details. Note descriptions, locations, and vehicle information.
- Stay alert while traveling. Keep an eye on highways, rest stops, and public areas.
- Report information immediately. Contact local law enforcement or dial 911 if you have any leads.
- Share the alert online. Social media can amplify reach and speed up recovery efforts.
Every shared post, text message, or sighting can make a life-saving difference.
The Turquoise Alert system continues to grow as a crucial safeguard for vulnerable adults across the U.S. Stay informed, stay alert, and be part of the movement that keeps every community safer.