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Specialized Information for:
Long-Term Care ConsumersFamily MembersAdvocates
Consumer and family resources on avoiding drugs as chemical restraints.
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Advocating for Quality Care and Treating Symptoms of Dementia without Drugs
Troubling Trends in Antipsychotic Drug Usage and Schizophrenia Diagnoses Among Nursing Home Residents
More than a decade after the creation of a federal campaign to reduce the use of antipsychotic drugs with nursing home residents living with dementia, and strengthened federal protections for residents around their use, newly released data shows usage rates are rising, particularly during the pandemic. Additional reports and studies show that schizophrenia diagnoses among nursing home residents, one of three diagnoses where antipsychotic use is not included in reported rates, has also been steadily increasing, particularly among Black residents. Listen to this discussion about what could be contributing to these increases and identify strategies for recognizing and addressing these troubling trends.
Speakers: Shekinah Fashaw-Walters, Assistant Professor, Division of Health Policy & Management, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota; Kelly Bagby, Vice President for Litigation for Health, Hunger, Housing and Human Services, AARP Foundation
Finding Real Solutions for Behavioral Health Needs in Persons with Dementia
Too often, caregivers are ill-equipped to address the needs of persons living with dementia, especially those related to behavioral health. This webinar explores strategies, effective treatments, and support for residents and families who often need help understanding their rights and how to get good care.
Avoiding Inappropriate Use of Antipsychotic Drugs: Knowing Your Rights
Read below articles and studies on the misuse of Antipsychotic drugs.
Consumer Voice Executive Director, Lori Smetanka, Writes Article on Antipsychotic Drug Use in Nursing Homes - October 19, 2021
In light of recent investigative reports from the New York Times about increases in schizophrenia diagnoses for residents, with higher rates of diagnoses for Black residents, purportedly to prescribe antipsychotic drugs, Consumer Voice Executive Director, Lori Smetanka, wrote an article for the American Society on Aging's Generations about the spike in antipsychotic drug use in nursing homes.