As a first responder, it’s critical to understand how to best approach situations involving someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Approaching Alzheimer's: First Responder Training program is a free, online training that features high-quality content in an interactive format, developed by the Alzheimer's Association with input from first responders. It can be accessed:

  • Anytime day or night, convenient for all shifts and new hires
  • By anyone with access to a computer and the internet, making it easy to take from home or work

Sign up for free first responder course

The course has an interactive map that allows you to explore topics relevant to your role. Once you have completed all topics, you can print a certificate celebrating that you are Ready to Respond! Training topics include:

  • Briefing (Dementia Overview)
  • Wandering
  • Driving
  • Abuse and Neglect
  • Shoplifting
  • Disaster Response

Sign Up

To promote the training within your department or agency, use this downloadable flyer to distribute or post in your breakroom.

The training also includes a downloadable tip sheet, Quick Tips for First Responders. This handy page can be folded to fit in a visor or emergency kit, and includes helpful phone numbers and strategies to help a person with dementia and their family.

Make Your First Response the Right Response

If you encounter a person living with dementia in the community where you protect and serve, would you know how to appropriately adjust your approach? With input from first responders, we developed the free online course: Approaching Alzheimer’s. 

Other resources for families in your community:

  • Safety information: Taking measures to ensure safety at all times can help prevent injuries, and it can help people with dementia feel relaxed and less overwhelmed. The Alzheimer's Association safety section provides valuable information on safety in the home, driving and other safety issues.

  • MedicAlert® with 24/7 Wandering Support: A nationwide emergency response service for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia who wander or have a medical emergency.

  • ALZNavigator™​: Whether you’re living with memory loss or caring for someone who is, answer a few questions and ALZNavigator will guide you to your next steps.

MedicAlert Law Enforcement Agency Portal (LEAP)

The LEAP program provides FREE enrollment into the MedicAlert program for people living with dementia who are registered through a law enforcement agency's online portal.

Learn More