Police In Newport, Maine, Roll Out New Program For Alzheimer’s/Dementia Patients

The town of Newport rolled out a new program Wednesday that aims to help First Responders save valuable time when an individual with Alzheimer's or Dementia goes missing.

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According to the Newport, ME Police Department Facebook Page, they are hoping to compile a database of individuals with memory issues, so if they come across someone who is disoriented or unable to identify (or remember) who they are or where they live, EMS providers will be able to check the list to see if it's someone who has registered.

"We are introducing a new program at the Newport Police Department. It is an Alzheimer's / Dementia checklist for Law Enforcement and First Responders.
The form provides critical information that may help us help them in a time of need. Information such as Emergency Contacts, Medical information, and Personal Description."

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Newport Police Chief David Wintle says the idea came to him from a very personal connection, his wife Rachel. She had heard about a similar program in Southern Maine for folks with memory issues and suggested to Wintle that he try to create one for Penobscot County.

Chief Wintle hopes that a database of important information like a description, medical conditions, and even a picture, will not only save law enforcement valuable time in emergency situations, but it will also help them keep these individuals safe as stress-free as possible.

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He wants to make the database accessible to all area Rescue, Law enforcement, Police Department, and Penobscot County Sheriff's teams.

"They can go to the list, find them, and get them home safe to their loved ones. "

If anyone is interested in putting their loved ones with Dementia or Alzheimer's into the database, it's a very easy process.

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"There's a link right at the website. You can download the application or pick one up from the police department."

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The link can be found here.

The Newport Police Station is located at 21 Water Street in Newport.

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Gallery Credit: Sarah Nickerson