Management of Behaviours in Dementia: Treatment or Restraint?

Abstract

The use of antipsychotic medication in the management of behaviours of concern in dementia is complex. Antipsychotics may be part of medical treatment or be a restrictive practice. The uncertainty around consent for restrictive practices exposes patients to the risk of antipsychotic use without consent and doctors to the risk of liability. This situation is even less clear in Victoria following the ruling in HYY [2022] VCAT 97. This article examines the process of consent, the potential liabilities and possible defences. It concludes that changes are needed to the process for obtaining consent to use antipsychotic medications for restrictive practices, especially in Victoria.