If you’re caring for a loved one with dementia, you already know: every day brings decisions. Some are small. Some feel enormous. And many of them involve medications you didn’t prescribe and may not fully understand.

You’re not alone in that feeling. New research from UCLA Health offers some helpful insight into one aspect of care that families may not always think to question: the use of certain medications.

What the Research Suggests

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that many older adults living with dementia are prescribed medications that affect the brain and nervous system. These can include drugs used for sleep, anxiety, mood, or behavioral symptoms.

In some cases, these medications play an important role. However, the research suggests they may sometimes be used more broadly than necessary, or without regular reevaluation as a person’s condition changes.

Why This Matters

Individuals living with dementia can be more sensitive to certain medications. Some may experience side effects such as increased confusion, drowsiness, or a higher risk of falls.

This doesn’t mean these medications should never be used, but rather that their use should be carefully considered and revisited over time, especially as needs change.

A Thoughtful Approach to Care

Many healthcare providers today emphasize a balanced approach when addressing symptoms like agitation, anxiety, or sleep disruption. This may include:

• Looking for underlying causes, such as discomfort, environmental changes, or disruptions to routine
• Exploring non-medication strategies first when appropriate, sometimes a change in environment or routine makes all the difference
• Using medications more selectively and monitoring closely for side effects, especially over time

For families, this is an invitation to stay engaged and ask questions, ensuring care decisions remain aligned with their loved ones’ needs.

The Role of Advocacy

When someone is no longer able to make medical decisions independently, trusted decision-makers step in. Having the ability and confidence to participate in care conversations can make a meaningful difference.

A few questions worth asking at any appointment:

• What is the goal of this medication?
• Are there alternatives we should consider?
• How will we know if it’s helping and when should we reassess?

These conversations are a normal and important part of collaborative care. Most providers welcome them.

Planning Ahead with Clarity

At Widlast Legal, we see planning as a way to support both individuals and their families through moments exactly like these.

Advance Health Care Directives and Dementia Care Directives can:

• Clarify preferences for care and treatment before a crisis arises
• Provide guidance in uncertain situations when decisions feel overwhelming
• Help ensure decisions reflect a person’s values and priorities, not just a default protocol

This research is not about creating concern, it’s about encouraging awareness. With the right information and support, families can feel more confident navigating care decisions.

Thoughtful planning, open communication, and trusted guidance all work together to help ensure that care remains compassionate, appropriate, and aligned with what matters most.