I will soon introduce legislation that establishes minimum dementia-care training requirements for EMS personnel, ensuring our first responders are better equipped to interact effectively with individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.  

Dementia-related confusion can appear as a psychiatric crisis or noncompliance, making it essential that EMS providers are able to recognize cognitive impairment and communicate effectively during emergencies.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 282,000 Pennsylvanians aged 65 years or older live with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Despite this significant and growing population, dementia advocates believe our current EMS training does not guarantee dementia-specific instruction or continuing education. This is a gap that leaves first responders without the tools they need and puts vulnerable Pennsylvanians at risk.

My legislation would establish baseline training standards on identifying cognitive impairment, effective communication strategies, and de-escalation techniques. These training requirements build on existing continuing education structures and impose minimal burden on providers or the Commonwealth. EMS personnel should comprehensively understand dementia-related behaviors and the procedures needed to keep individuals safe during emergencies.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this effort to close a critical training gap affecting families in every corner of Pennsylvania and ensure our first responders receive the preparation they need and deserve.