NCJ Number
248634
Date Published
February 2015
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The Alzheimer's Aware initiative provides a variety of practical resources and tools for law enforcement working to increase positive outcomes during interactions with persons with Alzheimer's disease, particularly when related to the issue of wandering.
Abstract
Alzheimer's Aware is a national initiative funded by the United States Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). The initiative provides a variety of practical resources and tools that can be used by any law enforcement organization, or other interested group, that is working to increase positive outcomes during interactions with persons with Alzheimer's disease, particularly when related to the issue of wandering. These resources and tools can be used to assist in the development and implementation of a community educational campaign by, or in partnership with, law enforcement. The resources have recommendations for developing a strategic plan with practical action steps and activity implementation, in order to develop a holistic community approach to responding in crisis situations, involving persons with Alzheimer's disease, as well as increase awareness of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. In order to reach the goals and objectives of increased awareness, appropriate response and interactions and improved outcomes as related to Alzheimer's disease and wandering, the national Alzheimer's Aware initiative is built around three over-arching areas of focus: 1) Law Enforcement Engagement; 2) Community Involvement; and 3) Public Information/Awareness. All three focus areas center on an understanding that awareness, both at the law enforcement and community level, needs to be increased in order to improve the safety and well-being of these individuals, their families, and the community as a whole.