News Article

Avoiding Drugs Used as Chemical Restraints: Residents' Rights and Facility Responsibilities

March 08, 2023

All nursing home residents have the right to quality, individualized, person-centered care that respects their needs, choices, preferences and routines. This includes when antipsychotic drugs are considered for use. Too often, individuals living with dementia are prescribed off-label antipsychotic medications instead of being provided quality care to meet their needs. These drugs have been found to increase the risk of harm or death for elderly patients with dementia.

Consumer Voice is releasing a new booklet, developed as result of our work on Avoiding Drugs as Chemical Restraints Consumer Education Campaign, which was in partnership with AARP Foundation.  The booklet provides information and tips on having clear communication with long-term care providers, ensuring that resident needs are met, how to provide nonpharmacological interventions, what to do if an antipsychotic drug has been prescribed, and residents' rights regarding antipsychotic drugs.

Get the Booklet.