Wassenaar emergency services boost dementia awareness to protect vulnerable residents
Firefighters and police in Wassenaar are now better equipped to assist residents with dementia after specialized training. This initiative aims to improve safety and dignity for vulnerable individuals while fostering a dementia-friendly community.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Training | 'Dealing well with dementia' for firefighters and neighbourhood police |
| Location | Wassenaar, Zuid-Holland |
| Date | March 23, 2026 |
| Goal | Recognize dementia signs and improve communication in emergencies |
| Next Step | Pursuing dementia-friendly municipality certification |
| Contact for Training | Monique de Ruiter (MdRuiter@wassenaar.nl) |
The municipality of Wassenaar plays a coordinating role in creating a dementia-friendly environment by facilitating collaboration between emergency services, care organizations, and residents. This training aligns with broader municipal policies aimed at enhancing safety and inclusivity for vulnerable groups.
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Successful training 'dementia-friendly municipality' for fire brigade and police
On Monday, March 23, firefighters and neighbourhood police officers in Wassenaar attended the training 'Dealing well with dementia'. An important step, as emergency services frequently come into contact with people with dementia, for example in cases of missing persons or situations involving possible fraud.
During the training, participants learn to better recognise signs of dementia and how to communicate in a calm and appropriate manner. This enables them to provide faster and more dignified assistance in vulnerable situations.
Working together towards a dementia-friendly Wassenaar
A dementia-friendly municipality is one that organises its policies, services and public spaces in such a way that people with dementia can participate in society for as long as possible in a safe, independent and dignified manner. This requires collaboration between the municipality, care organisations, emergency services and residents. As a municipality, we consider this important and are actively working towards it. This training is another step towards the dementia-friendly municipality certificate.
With greater understanding and knowledge, we can prevent misunderstandings and increase safety for both residents and emergency responders.
Thanks to all participants for their commitment!
Would you like to know more about the training sessions? Then visit the Samen Dementievriendelijk website.
Would you also like to register for a physical training session? Then please contact project leader for the dementia-friendly municipality Monique de Ruiter via MdRuiter@wassenaar.nl. The dates and times will be determined later based on the number of registrations.