The voice of validation is being amplified by individual advocates around the world. Here is another example of those who are willing to speak frankly about the systemic neglect and abuse that takes place in countless long-term care facilities.
After Michael Krauthamer (consultant, speaker, advocate and author of “Walking In Their Shoes: Communicating with Loved Ones Who Have Alzheimer’s disease”), read take off the blindfolds and #BanBPSD: an open letter to the worldwide dementia community, he reached out to me on LinkedIn and wrote:
“I am so very sorry about what happened to your mother. Your article and video is heart breaking. Since beginning work in healthcare facilities, I have fought to reduce then stop antipsychotic medications that are handed out like candy to PLWD. I have witnessed too many people placed on these medications because facilities do not want to pay for one more employee. I can always tell when someone is overmedicated. Working with the staff, I have seen remarkable changes when the antipsychotics are ended. Although I realize it’s cheaper for the facilities, it ruins the patients quality of life.
Hiring one more Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Personal Support Worker (PSW) provides the proper amount of staff so that they do not need to use these detrimental alternatives. I stand beside you 100% to help stop the abuse that happens to PLWD, who are prescribed these medications. Once again, thank-you for sharing.”
You said it Michael, and you are so right. #FightTheGoodFight #WeCanCareBetter
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“you said it!” is a place to discover informed comments, inspiring thoughts, short stories, good ideas, provocative opinions, quotable quotes and noteworthy snippets from across my worldwide network.
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