[Consumption of psychopharmaceuticals in residential facilities for the elderly. Evaluation of the extent, indications and effects]

Abstract

Previous studies have shown a high level of consumption of psychopharmacological drugs in nursing homes. A questionnaire study in Kronoberg County in the autumn of 1998 investigated treatment with psychopharmacological drugs at ten nursing homes with a total of 405 care recipients. The questionnaire included questions about the extent of treatment, indications, duration of treatment and evaluation routines. Some 59% of the recipients, with a variation of 48-73% in different homes, were in continuous treatment with psychopharmacological drugs. Disturbances of sleep, depression and anxiety accounted for 79% of all indications. For 84%, treatment duration was not time-limited ("until further notice"). Assessments by the care staff were the most common evaluation procedure. In only 43% of cases were patients' self-evaluations heeded. Neuroleptics were probably overused, often with indications other than psychotic symptoms. Repeated treatment evaluations involving different categories of staff are important if excessive medication is to be avoided.