Higher Psychotropic Medication Use in Elderly Residents with Dementia

Recent research from Macquarie University reveals that residents living with dementia in aged care facilities are prescribed antipsychotic medications at twice the rate of those without dementia. This first-ever comprehensive national study examined medication usage across 428 aged care facilities in Australia from 2018 to 2022, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in managing psychotropic drug use among older adults.

The study found a significant decline in the overall use of antipsychotics, sedatives, and antiseizure medications over the four-year period, which analysts attribute to reforms implemented following the 2018 Royal Commission into aged care. These reforms included stricter regulatory oversight, enhanced dementia support services, systematic medication reviews, and the adoption of quality indicators aimed at reducing unnecessary prescribing.

Despite these positive trends, the data indicates that the use of antipsychotics among residents with dementia remains alarmingly high—around 23% in 2022—twice that of residents without dementia. Moreover, there has been an increase in antidepressant prescriptions within this group, rising from 42% to 48%. While some healthcare providers perceive antidepressants as safer alternatives, experts warn that these medications also carry risks and limited evidence of benefit for behavioral symptoms linked to dementia.

The findings underscore that although regulatory and clinical efforts are steering care towards safer practices, further work is necessary. Persistent overprescribing of high-risk medications highlights a need for continuous workforce training, improved care strategies, and vigilant medication management to optimize treatment for this vulnerable population.

Associates Professor Magda Raban emphasizes that reducing unnecessary psychotropic use requires a collaborative approach involving aged care providers, clinicians, and families. Leveraging technology, ongoing training, and robust monitoring are essential steps toward ensuring the well-being and safety of older adults living with dementia.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-psychotics-high-aged-residents-dementia.html