Police officers are often the first community contact with families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer's Disease. When a person caught up in Dementia becomes uncontrollable in a home the most likely resource is to call 911. If the person with Alzheimer's is acting in a bizarre manner in the community the Police are the most reliable resource and will be called.
Any person who is in the position of dealing with the often unpredictable and sometimes violent behavior effects of Alzheimer's needs to be prepared to deal effectively with the situation. Police officers need training to respond in appropriate ways that calm the person and also relieve the family in their anxiety.
Money is needed to provide professional training for police officers as they increasingly deal with mental health issues including various Dementia related behaviors. The question today is where will that money come from since many funding sources are being reduced.
Organizations like Community Foundations can offer to provide one time or long term grants to provide training opportunities for police officers who will deal with Alzheimer related situations. The growing incidence of Dementia related problems in many communities indicates that the need is urgent. Action now will prepare for an even more challenging future.
Any person who is in the position of dealing with the often unpredictable and sometimes violent behavior effects of Alzheimer's needs to be prepared to deal effectively with the situation. Police officers need training to respond in appropriate ways that calm the person and also relieve the family in their anxiety.
Money is needed to provide professional training for police officers as they increasingly deal with mental health issues including various Dementia related behaviors. The question today is where will that money come from since many funding sources are being reduced.
Organizations like Community Foundations can offer to provide one time or long term grants to provide training opportunities for police officers who will deal with Alzheimer related situations. The growing incidence of Dementia related problems in many communities indicates that the need is urgent. Action now will prepare for an even more challenging future.
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