A bill aimed at providing essential specialized training for Georgia’s first responders when dealing with individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) is nearing approval.

House Bill 238 (HB238) has passed unanimously in the House and proposes a training course focusing on best practices for responding to signs of ADRD. Representative Eddie Lumsden (R-Armuchee) sponsored HB238, responding to the increasing need in the state, as over 188,000 Georgians live with Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia diagnoses are rising due to an aging population. Encounters between first responders and people with cognitive impairment are becoming more frequent.

The bill is inspired by “Mattie’s Call,” a law established 18 years ago with the help of the Alzheimer’s Association that issues alerts when a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia goes missing. Mattie Moore, who tragically died after wandering from home in 2004, is the namesake. With statistics showing that six in ten people with dementia will wander at some point, specialized training is urgent. A spokesperson for the Alzheimer’s Association stated that the goal is to enable people to stay in their homes and communities while providing first responders with necessary tools. The optional training course for first responders will cover key areas, including effective communication, recognizing symptoms, and identifying signs of abuse.

The passage of HB238 through the House had strong bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for further consideration.