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When medical malpractice affects a patient with dementia

On Behalf of | Jan 31, 2025 | Medical Malpractice |

Patients with dementia are among the most vulnerable in the healthcare system, relying on doctors, nurses and caregivers for their well-being to a degree that most adults do not. When medical malpractice occurs, these patients are at an even greater risk of harm because they may be unable to recognize mistakes, communicate symptoms and/or advocate for themselves. 

As a result of this disturbing and frustrating reality, families of dementia patients must be aware of these risks to help mitigate them. And, because harm may befall patients even if they have caring and attentive loved ones on their side, families should also be aware of their legal options if their loved one suffers due to medical negligence.

Common malpractice concerns that affect dementia patients

Medical malpractice can take many forms, but certain types of negligence are especially commonplace – and may be especially dangerous – for dementia patients.

  • Medication Errors: Dementia patients often require multiple medications, making them particularly vulnerable to dosage mistakes, incorrect prescriptions or dangerous drug interactions. A medication error can worsen their condition, cause severe side effects and even lead to a fatal overdose.
  • Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis: Because dementia patients may have difficulty expressing pain or symptoms, doctors may more easily dismiss or misinterpret their medical issues. This can result in undiagnosed infections, untreated strokes or missed signs of serious illnesses like cancer.
  • Neglect in Nursing Homes or Hospitals: Dementia patients who are unable to care for themselves rely on healthcare providers for basic needs. If staff fail to provide proper hygiene, nutrition and/or mobility assistance, patients can suffer from bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, falls, etc.
  • Physical or Chemical Restraints: Some facilities improperly use physical restraints or sedating medications to control dementia patients instead of providing proper care. This can lead to serious health complications, loss of mobility and a decline in mental well-being.

Proving medical malpractice for a dementia patient can be uniquely challenging. A patient may not be able to recall or describe what happened, and their symptoms could be mistaken for the natural progression of their condition. This is just one of the many reasons why it is generally wise for family members of a loved one who may be suffering as a result of malpractice to seek legal guidance and support as soon as possible. Justice is possible, but obtaining it isn’t always a straightforward task. 

 

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