Manley Measure to Implement Mandatory Dementia Training to Protect Wellness of Seniors

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – As a part of her continued advocacy for seniors, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, recently introduced legislation to implement mandatory dementia-specific training for EMTs, probate judges and conservators.

“Residents living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia are among our most vulnerable citizens, and they have very specific needs, especially when going through times of crisis or transition when they can no longer care for themselves,” said Manley. “It is critical that the specialists who are charged with protecting their wellbeing recognize the signs of dementia, and know how to best support a person living with Alzheimer’s while caring for their best interest.”

Manley has been an outspoken advocate for seniors and Illinoisans living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. To ensure the EMTs who provide emergency medical care, and probate judges and paid conservators who look after the best interests of a person living with Alzheimer’s understand the full implications of dementia, Manley recently introduced House Bill 3963. Manley’s initiative will ensure the professionals who regularly come into contact with those living with dementia understand how to provide the best care possible by implementing dementia-specific training.

Manley has continually prioritized advocacy for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia diagnoses. As a part of her work, Manley passed a law that created Silver Search, the statewide program that is triggered when a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s goes missing, much like AMBER Alert.

“At the absolute minimum, Illinoisans living with dementia deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect,” continued Manley. “Ensuring the professionals that are responsible for the guardianship and wellbeing of those with dementia understand Alzheimer’s disease and dementia care will help them provide the best direction possible for overseeing the patient’s interests.”