Enablement

The BBC reports this week:
The Dementia Action Alliance - which includes the RCGP, Department of Health, Alzheimer's Society and Age UK - want all prescriptions for antipsychotics to be reviewed by the end of March 2012.

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive of the Alzheimer's Society, said it was unacceptable that people with dementia were having their health and quality of life put at risk because of antipsychotics:

"It is essential we bring an end to this chemical cosh and empower people with dementia and carers with the information they need to ensure they are not prescribed these drugs inappropriately. This call to action can do just that."

"It's not just about reducing antipsychotics but also about improving quality care. This means developing alternative treatments and finding better ways to manage pain and other medical conditions."

Most agree that the aim of this campaign is worthy. I wonder how and whether it will be achieved. I consider the use of the term "chemical cosh" could encourage an aggressive indignation from those affected; this risks undermining the trusting relationship with their medical team. There is clearly battle analogy being used with patients pitted against Doctors. This is not likely to lead to empowerment, but I also question whether empowerment is desirable or whether enablement is not more helpful. People would often benefit from assistance in managing relationships with their medical team and avoiding misunderstandings; this needs to be done with care and who is best placed to do this?