Episode 6: Are Pills 💊 Always the Best Solution: Insights from Dr. Allen Power, Geriatrician and International Educator in Dementia Care

Recently, I had the delightful opportunity to sit down and chat with the renowned Dr. Allen Power, a geriatrician, published author, and clinical associate professor of medicine at the University of Rochester.

Our conversation challenged the status quo regarding the current culture of care and how pills, such as antipsychotics, are currently used as a bandage approach to manage symptoms associated with dementia. Dr. Power shared his 40+ years of experience in geriatric care and dementia, advocating for an experiential approach that prioritizes well-being of individuals. We discussed how a systemic change is needed to truly transform our existing institutionalized model of care to ensure all patients receive the dignity, respect, and positive quality of life they deserve.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Allen Power
02:17 Journey into Geriatrics and Dementia Advocacy
04:28 The Medication-Driven Approach in Dementia Care
09:00 The Impact of Antipsychotics on Patients
15:07 Case Study: Charlie's Experience in Two Nursing Homes
17:11 Balancing Pharmaceutical and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions
18:39 The Role of Non-Pharmacological Approaches
22:27 Understanding Well-Being in Dementia Care
27:31 Systemic Changes for Better Care
32:03 Unmet Needs and Communication in Dementia
35:20 Unlocking Memory Care: A New Perspective
37:01 The Institutional Model of Care: Challenges and Characteristics
40:59 Transforming Nursing Homes: The Greenhouse Project
45:48 Accessibility in Care: Bridging the Gap
49:06 Rethinking Aging: Community and Inclusivity
50:43 The Experiential Model of Care: A Shift in Perspective
01:01:02 Overcoming Obstacles: Changing the Narrative
01:04:03 Finding Hope: Transforming the Culture of Care