The Times Weekly, news
To ensure quality care for the growing number of seniors and individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia diagnoses, state Rep. Natalie Manley, D-Joliet, co-sponsored a bill that would require first responders, such as paramedics and EMTs, to complete at least one hour of training on the diagnosis, treatment, and care of individuals with cognitive impairments.
House Bill 4388 would expand upon last year’s amendment to the Department of Professional Regulation Law, which requires cognitive impairment training for health care professionals. With 230,000 Illinoisans currently living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, a number that the Illinois Alzheimer’s Association expects to increase by 13 percent, this bill is part of Manley’s career-long advocacy for individuals with Alzheimer’s.
Because of her longtime commitment to the issue, Manley was named “Legislator of the Year” by the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association in 2015.
“Until we have a cure for Alzheimer’s, we will keep finding ways to cope. There’s always more to be done.”
The bill passed through the House on Feb. 23 and is now with the Senate.
