Suche
Mein Konto
Long-term sedatives in nursing homes: An alarming trend!
At 27.34%, Merzig-Wadern has the highest rate of long-term sleeping pills and sedatives in nursing homes in Germany.
Long-term sedatives in nursing homes: An alarming trend!
In German nursing homes, long-term medication with sleeping pills and sedatives is a common issue that affects many people in need of care. As rechtsdepesche.de reports, around 7.14 percent of residents use such medications long-term. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in Saarland with an impressive 15.88 percent and in North Rhine-Westphalia, where it is also very popular with 12.15 percent. For comparison: Saxony-Anhalt only records 2.9 percent. In general, it can be seen that the regional prescription practice in West Germany is significantly more risky than in East Germany.
Since the introduction of a repeat prescription regulation in March 2020, which was valid until April 2023, chronically ill patients have been able to receive a standing prescription. This allows up to four medication deliveries for a period of one year. This practice raises questions because long-term use of sleeping pills can promote unhealthy addictions and increase the risk of falls. Dr. Helmut Frohnhofen emphasizes that these medications often have a negative impact on the deep phases of sleep.
Regional differences with far-reaching consequences
As can be seen from the AOK care report, there is a clear trend: in the best regional districts, the proportion of nursing home residents with long-term medication is below 4.7 percent, while in the most heavily burdened districts this value rises to over 9.9 percent. The high number of prescriptions is particularly noticeable in North Rhine-Westphalia and Saarland, while in almost all of Eastern Germany there is a comparatively cautious approach to such substances. The question could also arise here as to why there are no clear reasons for the differences in medication prescription, as researchers have found.
The risks associated with long-term medication should not be underestimated. They range from addictions to increased risk of falls to psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. An evaluation of dementia patients in homes shows that 4 percent were admitted to hospital due to a lack of fluids, which could also be an indication of inadequate care. However, a positive trend has been noted over the last few years: the proportion of nursing home residents who were hospitalized in their last 30 days of life fell from 47 percent in 2017 to 42 percent in 2021.
Alternative approaches to medication
It is important that the causes of sleep and behavioral disorders are treated without high doses of medication. Experts recommend using milder agents such as amino acids or herbal ingredients such as valerian and passionflower. Relaxation techniques such as yoga or autogenic training can also help improve sleep quality. The Snoezelen concept, which creates retreat spaces to promote inner peace, is becoming increasingly important. Physical and mental activities, whether through puzzles or gentle exercise, can make a valuable contribution.
Overall, the challenge in the German care system remains great. Close collaboration between care facilities, doctors and clinics is necessary to improve the quality of care and reduce dependency on sedatives. The data from around 350,000 nursing home residents shows that there is still a lot of potential for improvement.
The topic remains very relevant for all those who work in nursing or have relatives who live in nursing homes. Questions about medication and alternative treatment options should be integrated into daily practice so that the quality of life of our older generations can not only be maintained, but also improved. Figures and reports suggest: There is something going on!