Joan Catlow was found at the Christchurch Public Hospital this afternoon. It appears she had been there and at other public places for the last few days, unaware that she had been reported missing and police were looking for her. Hospital staff found Mrs Catlow and brought her to police attention. She has been offered medical treatment through her family doctor.
She told police that she had taken some clothes from the clothes line as she left, to see her through.
DSS David Harvey said she was quite emotional. There will be no further police investigation or charges.
"Anyone concerned for someone's welfare should contact police as soon as possible so we can act on this," he says. "If you see someone in a distressed state please contact police so we can help as soon as possible."