WV Alzheimer's Association Offers 'Dementia Training' for First Responders

WBOY-12 reports that the West Virginia Alzheimer's Association is offering dementia training for the state's first responders to help in their interactions with seniors. Program Director Teresa Morris said the free series of educational programs will cover effective communication strategies and dementia behaviors. Sharon M. Covert, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association West Virginia Chapter, said dementia training for West Virginia's first responders is critical to fostering a dementia-friendly workforce. The association is offering training in two formats in order to get as many first responders certified as possible: online and live training. "The services were developed with first responders, so we hope that they are very well thought out in terms of what their needs are," Morris said. "Our services — or our programs rather, are evidence-based, so we know that they work." The association has already teamed with the town of St. Albans and its police department, and has also reached out to the West Virginia State Police. Morris said now is a "good time to push" for certifying the state police and whomever else responds to calls involving seniors.