Unsafe Medications

AARP reminded us that the abuse of psychotropic medications on vulnerable residents in nursing homes are dangerous. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of the Inspector General issued a damning report. Eight in 10 elderly nursing home residents on Medicare were prescribed psychiatric drugs. Almost a million residents per year placed at risk of unnecessary injury or death.

“The drugs, scientifically known as psychotropics, have long been criticized by nursing home resident advocates and lawmakers as “chemical straight jackets” used to sedate unsettled patients, particularly those with dementia.”

Why do they allow these unsafe medications? Is convenience more important than safety?