"We are writing this on behalf of our father Stanley Bowles. We would like it to be known that our father has unfortunately developed a form of Alzheimer's," said a statement from his family on his Facebook page.
"We would be grateful for anyone who comes in contact with our father to show some understanding of his condition."
Bowles, 66, began his career with Manchester City but it was at QPR where he became regarded as one of English football's great entertainers.
He played more than 300 games for the Londoners and his left-footed trickery earned five caps for England.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
(Reporting by Martyn Herman, editing by Tony Jimenez)
