Dementia expert trains local first responders

A dementia/Alzheimer’s expert presented educational DVDs to Sarasota first responders Wednesday, Feb. 6 at the Pines of Sarasota.

“Our country’s first responders, our firemen, policemen, EMTs are out there everyday helping and saving our citizens,” said Pines Education Institute Director JoAnn Westbrook in a press release. “Now imagine them trying to perform their duties when faced with an individual with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Handling these citizens requires an entirely different skill set.”

That’s why the Pines brought in Teepa Snow, an occupational therapist and expert on dementia/Alzheimer’s who trained first responders in recognizing symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Snow also discussed ways to reduce stress and resistance during emergency situations and how to use a positive physical approach in interactions.

One in eight older Americans has Alzheimer’s disease.