Families and guardians of people with dementia face difficult decisions when long-term care facilities recommend antipsychotic or other brain-altering medications to manage aggression and agitation. Despite federal efforts to reduce their use, some Medicare beneficiaries with dementia may still receive potentially inappropriate medications that can increase the risk of delirium, falls and hospitalization. Families may feel pressured to consent because refusing medication can threaten the resident's placement at the facility.
Antipsychotic Use in Dementia Care Raises Difficult Choices for Families
