There was up to a 50% reduction in the use of psychotropic drugs when seniors in a continuing care retirement community received personalized technology services, according to research from It’s Never 2 Late and Western Home Communities.
The research examined whether personalized technology for seniors with dementia can reduce the administration of psychotropic drugs. The case study and findings were released by LeadingAge Center for Aging Services Technologies (CAST).
The results showed that 50% fewer residents needed PRN (as needed) antipsychotic medication when redirected toward person-centered technology, and there was a 20% to 50% reduction in the total number of doses given to all residents on PRN psychotic medications.
The study was conducted at Martin Health Center, a skilled nursing facility in Cedar Falls, IA, where 11 of the 48 residents have a dementia diagnosis and receive PRN antipsychotics to treat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Western Home Communities put in IN2L computer systems for Martin Health Center residents as a way to execute a non-pharmaceutical intervention. When episodes occurred, residents were redirected toward a game, favorite TV show, calming sounds and music, or spiritual content, the company said.
