Illinois is taking a big step to help those with dementia.
David Olsen, Director of State Affairs for the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, told WBBM that Illinois "is the first state to pass dementia training for paramedics and EMT's."
He was talking about House Bill 4388, which was recently passed in Springfield.
This first-in-the-nation training requirement will help paramedics recognize the signs and symptoms of dementia as well as be able to effectively communicate with people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Olsen said the new legislation will have a huge impact when people call 9-1-1.
"Whether they're (first responders) responding to a situation that directly deals with the Alzheimer's or the dementia diagnosis, or perhaps some other disorder, but Alzheimer's is going to affect the interaction. So this is really exciting so they not only get the person the help they need at that time, but also communicate effectively and really ensure they're on the front lines and protecting people living with Alzheimer's and dementia."
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The bill requires that EMTs and paramedics dedicate one hour of their existing training requirements prior to re-licensure to education on recognizing signs and symptoms of dementia, the care and treatment of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, as well as effective communication strategies with this vulnerable population.
The dementia training for EMT's and paramedics becomes mandatory January 1st.