Law Enforcement Officers to Receive Dementia Training

Under a new state law, law enforcement officers must receive training in how to interact with individuals who have Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

The law requires instruction on techniques for recognizing symptoms, communicating effectively, employing alternatives to physical restraints, and identifying signs of abuse and neglect.

An estimated 400,000 Texans are living with Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Police encounters with individuals with dementia may include situations such as wandering, shoplifting and violence.