Decision making and dementia

Abstract

One of the most complex problems facing families and practitioners is making decisions for the person with dementia. Families and other care providers are often faced with difficult decisions and they must weigh several potentially conflicting factors, including:

• The patient's best interest,

• What the patient previously indicated his or her preferences were, and

• The potential of risk or harm to the patient or to others.

Examination of the process of decision making, including when to take over decision making and what principles to use in reaching a decision, can help prepare families and practitioners for some of the dilemmas they may encounter.