STATEMENT ON HHS INSPECTOR GENERAL REPORT ON IMPROPER USE OF ANTIPSYCHOTICS IN NURSING HOMES
"Giving older adults antipsychotic drugs under false pretenses is elder abuse. For older adults with dementia, it can be deadly.
“The idea that nursing home companies would set policies to intentionally misdiagnose residents with schizophrenia for the purpose of chemically subduing them with powerful antipsychotics is alarming and morally reprehensible.
“All older adults deserve safe, age-friendly care that meets their specific needs and many nursing homes deliver exactly that. For older adults living with dementia who may respond differently to medication, this requires a workforce trained to provide specialized care that prioritizes nonpharmacological approaches, as recommended by national practice guidelines.
“Systemically improving long-term care takes investment in staffing, training and oversight. The public and private sectors share responsibility for identifying solutions that prevent this and all types of elder abuse.”
- Rani E. Snyder, MPA
President, The John A. Hartford Foundation
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Media Contact: Andrew Silva, 508-933-8054, asilva@MessagePartnersPR.com
About The John A. Hartford Foundation
The John A. Hartford Foundation, based in New York City, is a private, nonpartisan, national philanthropy dedicated to improving the care of older adults. The leader in the field of aging and health, the foundation has three priority areas: creating age-friendly health systems, supporting family caregivers, and improving serious illness and end-of-life care. For more information, visit johnahartford.org.