Drugs are widely used to sedate dementia patients. Her sons wanted to keep her off them
The article examines the controversial use of antipsychotic medications to sedate dementia patients in long-term care facilities. It highlights the struggle of families who must choose between consenting to potentially dangerous drug treatments or facing the eviction of their loved ones.
Why it matters
It sheds light on the systemic ethical and safety issues regarding the over-prescription of psychotropic drugs in the aging population.
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In December 2024, Marjorie Tingley's adult sons received an urgent email from the dementia care unit at Vista Grande Villa, a Michigan senior living community. They were told that their 85-year-old mother was a major safety threat.
On at least 10 days the previous month, Tingley had hit, kicked, or elbowed aides when they were trying to help change her briefs, get dressed, bathe, or go to the bathroom, according to Vista Grande behavior logs. Vista Grande wanted permission to sedate her.
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