Polypharmacy is a clinical challenge because of the complex balance between managing disease and avoiding medication-related problems. Moreover, the health care system is geared toward starting medications, not reducing or stopping them. This means prioritization of regular review of medications to ensure that they are still the most appropriate for the person living with dementia. This webinar explores best management practice with regard to deprescribing, the use of psychotropic medicine and care transitions, Discussions about deprescribing with patients and families provide a prime opportunity for person-focused care and shared decision making.

We have a stellar cast of panel members who will provide their perspectives:

Dr Elissa Campbell is a geriatrician and palliative care physician, working in acute geriatric medicine. She is president of Palliative Care WA and chair of the ANZ Society of Palliative Medicine’s SIG in Palliative Care for Older People.

Bronte Parkin is a dementia advocate having cared for his wife, Glenda, who had young onset dementia for 13 years. He presented on "Polypharmacy and deprescribing in dementia care" at the National Medicines Symposium 2024.

Dr Andrew Stafford is a pharmacist, senior lecturer at Curtin Medical School. with experience in community pharmacy, aged care and academia. Focussed in the areas of dementia training and clinical geriatrics, his primary interests involve ways to optimise medication use, particularly with a focus on quality of life and patient-centred care.

Dr Craig Berg is a GP with a special interest in geriatric medicine and palliative care. He has dedicated his career to caring for patients in residential care and is renowned for providing compassionate and ongoing support to his patients, their fmilies and to the staff at care facilities.

We welcome your participation and engagement.