Don’t believe senior being given unneccessary antipsychotics
Seriously? One in four seniors in a long term care facility is being given antipsychotic meds without a supporting diagnosis?
I simply do not believe this could occur as stated.
From my experiences, while my mother was in care for many years in Vancouver, absolute vigilance with tremendous care, was the norm on all levels. ANY meds or supplements given were required to be prescribed and approved by the doctor, and fully documented through a chain of directives, and then administered by nursing staff.
Residential care facilities are accountable, following strict protocols and procedures, along with family involvement. While there may be isolated cases of abuse in some settings, it is NOT common practice that elders in care are medicated without just cause. This apparent abuse is not widespread. To the contrary, generally, facilities strive for excellence in quality care.
We have much to be thankful for.
Louise Rueger
Chemainus