During a time when a person with dementia is having an issue and outside help is called, a new program is working to make that hectic time a bit safer.
The Oneida County Purple Tube Project is designed to assist families and first responders in a crisis situation by providing information about the patient.
Department on Aging Assistant Director Joel Gottsaker outlines the program...
"....If there is a crisis, the emergency personnel who come to the home will have a resources to go to to more quickly figure out what is going on with a family or with the individual having the crisis and to better respond in a positive manner...."
The Purple Tube will contain a medication list a list of behaviors the person might be engaging in, and a Power Of Attorney form so a decision maker can be contacted if necessary. Gottsaker says a number of groups engaged in making the program happen...
"...a program between law enforcement, Social Services, the ADRC, the Alzheimer's Association. We're calling that larger group the Dementia Friendly Community Network. We're working toward helping people understand what is happening in dementia and how we can help those people...."
The Purple Tubes are available at no charge. Vilas and Forest counties are also involved. Gottsaker says if people want more information, they can call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 800-699-6704.
