THE USE OF INVOLUNTARY TREATMENT AMONG NURSING HOME RESIDENTS IN THE NETHERLANDS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
2024

Involuntary Treatment in Nursing Home Residents

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Biesmans Guido, Hameleers Niels, Hamers Jan, Bleijlevens Michel

Primary Institution: Maastricht University

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence and associated factors of involuntary treatment among nursing home residents with cognitive or functional impairment?

Conclusion

Involuntary treatment is frequently used among nursing home residents, particularly those with cognitive impairments.

Supporting Evidence

  • Involuntary treatment was used in 30% of the total sample of nursing home residents.
  • Physical restraint was the most commonly used form of involuntary treatment at 92%.
  • Off-label use of psychotropic medications occurred in 20% of cases.
  • Non-consensual care was reported in 10% of the residents.
  • Cognitive impairment was associated with a 38% prevalence of involuntary treatment.

Takeaway

Some older people in nursing homes are treated without their consent, which can include things like being tied down or given medicine they didn't agree to.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted using association analyses and the International Prevalence Measurement of Care Quality.

Participant Demographics

Residents included those with cognitive impairments, functional impairments, and varying levels of dependency in daily activities.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.2803

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