First Responders Dementia Training in New Jersey
Educating law enforcement and emergency responders to support individuals living with dementia and disabilities.
More than 185,000 people in New Jersey are living with Alzheimer’s, and many others experience related dementias or developmental disabilities such as autism. These conditions often affect memory, behavior, and communication, which can complicate emergency calls.
​
Our First Responders Training provides law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other emergency teams with practical tools to recognize cognitive conditions, respond with empathy, and use safe and effective de-escalation strategies. Whether you are in a patrol car or on a rescue call, this training ensures every interaction is informed, respectful, and safe.
​
Interested in scheduling a training?
Contact Kristine Allen, President & Co-Founder, at kallen@actnowfoundation.org
This training in Hudson County is made possible through a partnership between the Hudson County Prosecutor's Office, the Hudson County Office of Inclusion and Accessibility, and Act Now Foundation, with funding from the Kevin and Avonte Program: Reducing Injury and Death of Missing Individuals with Dementia and Developmental Disabilities, funded by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs.
.png)
What the First Responders Training Includes:
.png){kind=small}
Dementia and Disability Awareness
-
Identify common signs and symptoms of dementia
-
Understand how cognitive conditions can affect behavior and communication
De-escalation and Crisis Intervention
-
Learn practical strategies to safely de-escalate situations
-
Reduce risk for both responders and individuals in crisis
​Safety and Wandering Prevention
-
Explore techniques to prevent wandering incidents
-
Improve rescue outcomes for people living with dementia and other cognitive disabilities
Why This Training Matters:
When responders can identify signs of dementia and cognitive disabilities, it helps reduce injury, miscommunication, and escalation. Benefits include:
-
Public Safety: Prevent wandering and support faster, safer rescues
-
Crisis Response: Promote calm, de-escalated interactions
-
Community Trust: Build empathy and confidence among responders and the public
Empowered responders lead to safer communities and better outcomes for individuals living with dementia.
READY TO ENHANCE YOUR TEAM'S SKILLS?
Law enforcement agencies, fire departments, EMS, and other emergency response teams in New Jersey can schedule this essential dementia and disability awareness training.
​
Contact Kristine Allen, President & Co-Founder
Phone: 201-721-6721
Email: kallen@actnowfoundation.org