AARP Ohio calls on lawmakers to pass bills providing dementia training to first responders
AARP Ohio is calling on lawmakers to pass legislation that provides dementia training to first responders, according to the spokesperson with AARP.
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“Mandatory training for first responders will help protect vulnerable Ohioans with Alzheimer’s Disease or other related dementia, while giving their families peace of mind,” State Director for AARP Ohio, Holly Holtzen, said. “Passing this legislation is a step in the right direction and could impact hundreds of thousands of lives.”
AARP called on Ohio lawmakers to pass House Bill 23, the spokesperson said in a release shared with News Center 7. This legislation would help family caregivers who have a loved-one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia by developing education and required training for first responders on how to address situations with individuals who suffer from those diseases.
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The bill will help to train peace officers and specific emergency medical service personnel to spot signs of Alzheimer’s and related dementia, as well as how to interact with people living with dementia and educating them on the best way to intervene in situations where these individuals may be at risk of abuse and neglect, the spokesperson said.
“The symptoms of dementia aren’t always consistent, or even easily recognizable. You know the ones providing care or have provided care for someone with dementia need all of the help and support they can get,” AARP Ohio volunteer, Veronica McCreary Hall, said. “Ohio’s first responders can play a critical role in keeping them safe and protected.”
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An estimated 220 thousand people with Alzheimer’s or dementia in Ohio, the spokesperson said. It is expected that by 2030 that number will increase by 20%.
