Non-emergency "lift assist" rather than a 911 call is useful

dancsfo

This is not specific to dementia, but if your LO falls and you can't lift the patient, you can request "lift assist" in some towns, which will avoid dispatching a full set of vehicles with sirens (or even a police car) to provide medical assistance. It may take a bit longer since it a non-emergency.

I have not requested one yet, but learned of this in a support group I am part of.

Damiross

It's available here in Alameda County (California). They send out firefighters and, in case there are injuries, a medic.

Chance Rider

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/76030/non-emergency-lift-assist-rather-than-a-911-call-is-useful

That’s great info to have, thank you! We live in a very rural area about 45 minutes from town but a fully staffed fire station is a mile away.

MN Chickadee

Yes that is a thing where I live as well, both in the city and many rural volunteer departments. Firefighters (our first responders here) even have a special gizmo to assist. If someone on the floor is plus sized and difficult to lift it's hard on first responders bodies to lift them, so they have a big air mat they roll the person on to and it slowly inflates with air to raise them up so it is less weight for the medic.

janeedee

https://alzconnected.org/discussion/76030/non-emergency-lift-assist-rather-than-a-911-call-is-useful

I’ve had this non emergency number for a while. Had to use it for the first time Sunday here in Horry County SC. They sent 4 firefighters who were absolutely great. They will also transport if they think it’s necessary (my LO refused). We had Dr appt on Tues. They said call back whenever needed, - that’s what we’re here for, ❤️