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Adult Protective Services Partners with Alzheimer’s Association for Dementia-Informed Practices

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, which calls to attention the more than 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. As our communities continue to age, it is crucial that we consider the ways in which dementia impacts those we serve, and evolve our practices to better respond to the unique needs that stem from it.

As mentioned earlier this month, DES hosted the 4th Annual World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Conference June 13-14 to engage, collaborate and learn from professionals in aging. Among the many topics discussed was dementia, which can make already vulnerable adults that much more vulnerable. It has and will continue to be a major focus of research, and individuals who work with older adults must be acutely aware of how dementia may impact the way services and care are provided to those living with it.

The Arizona Adult Protective Services (APS) program is no exception, and in fact, dementia-informed services are critical to help ensure the health, safety and comfort of vulnerable adults who may experience abuse, neglect or maltreatment. Existing APS training covered the basics of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, which is the most common form of dementia. However, I am pleased to announce that the DES Division of Aging and Adult Services has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to strengthen training provided to APS investigators so they can have a more complete understanding of dementia and its impact on the clients whom they serve.

Through this partnership, the Alzheimer’s Association provided APS with access to training designed specifically for APS staff nationwide. In order to ensure our investigators are equipped with the most current information, the training will regularly be updated as new research is published and best practices evolve. This training will be first introduced next month to APS supervisors before cascading to all the investigators within our teams.

APS investigators work with individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia every day. Knowing what to look for and how brain disease can impact vulnerability will strengthen our investigations. Additionally, investigators will be armed with resources for family members and caregivers on what to expect as symptoms deteriorate and eventually interfere with most everyday activities. With this new training, investigators can more adeptly navigate and overcome these obstacles, leading to better outcomes for vulnerable adults.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Arizona has one of the highest growth rates for Alzheimer’s in the country. It is prudent that all professionals in aging evolve their knowledge, understanding and practices related to dementia so we can better support the health, comfort and, most importantly, safety of those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Report Abuse, Neglect or Maltreatment

If you suspect the abuse, neglect or maltreatment of a vulnerable adult, APS is available to help. To file a report, call 1-877-SOS-ADULT (1-877-767-2385) or report online. Thank you for your partnership in ensuring vulnerable adults remain safe.

Michael Wisehart