First Responder Training

Overview

Dementia affects thousands of individuals and families in Newfoundland and Labrador. People living with dementia may experience confusion, disorientation, or difficulty communicating, especially in high-stress emergency situations. This can make it challenging for first responders to assess their needs and provide appropriate assistance.

Why Dementia Training is Important for First Responders

First responders play an important role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals living with dementia, whether they are responding to a call about a missing person, assisting someone who appears lost, or handling a crisis situation. Without proper training, it can be difficult to differentiate dementia-related behaviours from other conditions, leading to misunderstandings or unintended escalation.

By receiving dementia training, first responders can learn to recognize the signs of dementia, communicate effectively, and apply strategies to de-escalate situations. This training equips them with the knowledge and skills to approach individuals with patience, understanding, and confidence, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both the responders and the individuals they are assisting.

What Our Training Covers

Our dementia training for first responders equips police officers, firefighters, paramedics, search and rescue teams, and emergency personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to interact effectively with individuals living with dementia. Key topics include:

Recognizing Dementia: Understanding common symptoms and behaviours.
Effective Communication Techniques: How to approach, speak with, and reassure someone with dementia.
De-Escalation Strategies: Responding to confusion, agitation, or wandering.
Location Devices: Awareness of tracking and identification tools. These devices can help first responders quickly identify and safely return individuals who may be lost or disoriented.
Case Studies & Real-Life Scenarios: Interactive learning through real-world examples.

This training enhances both responder confidence and the safety and well-being of people living with dementia, ensuring better outcomes for all involved.

Who Should Attend?

Police officers.
Firefighters.
Paramedics and ambulance personnel.
Search and rescue teams.
Emergency dispatchers.
Security personnel.

How to Register

Resources & Additional Information

I'm a first responder | Alzheimer Society of Canada—The Alzheimer Society Canada provides a handbook, videos, and other resources that can equip first responders with more details on how to recognize, communicate with, and respond to someone living with dementia.

Disaster preparation and response | Alzheimer Society of Canada - With Newfoundland’s unpredictable and extreme weather, first responders must stay updated on disaster planning to protect vulnerable populations, including those with dementia. Being prepared ensures safe, timely, and compassionate assistance during storms, power outages, and other emergencies.