“Difficult” is Not a Diagnosis: What to Do When You’re Loved One is Being Pushed to Take Antipsychotic Drugs

“Difficult” is not a diagnosis and it is inappropriate to label any resident this way. Actions and behaviors are a form of communication by which residents are expressing an unmet need. There are steps the nursing home should take to assess and try to address what might be causing “difficult” behavior or distress before resorting to medication, such as an antipsychotic drug, for which the resident may not have a clinical diagnosis.

A new fact sheet, “Difficult” is Not a Diagnosis: What to Do When You’re Loved One is Being Pushed to Take Antipsychotic Drugs, is now available for advocates and family members. Thank you to the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long Term-Care that shared this fact sheet which provides tips and resources on what to do if your loved one is being pushed to take antipsychotic drugs.

Contact a certified elder law attorney(*), such as Linda Strohschein and her team at Strohschein Law Group for assistance with care related concerns and protecting the rights of nursing home residents. To set up an appointment, contact Strohschein Law Group at 630-377-3241.

This information provided by Strohschein Law Group is general in nature and is not intended to be legal advice, nor does it constitute a legal relationship. Please consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.

(*) The Supreme Court of Illinois does not recognize certifications of specialties in the practice of law and the CELA designation is not a requirement to practice law in Illinois.