‘I Want to Go Home Now’: Restraint Decisions for Dementia Patients in Western Australia

Abstract

This article examines the current legal framework for restraint of persons with dementia in Western Australian aged care facilities and evaluates it in light of recent developments at the national and international levels. It highlights how the current legal framework fails to adequately protect people with dementia and aged care professionals, and considers options for reform. We argue that the viability of supported decision-making for restraint decisions needs to be carefully considered, and that law reform is necessary to ensure that the best decisions are made, the dignity of dementia sufferers is protected, and that there are safeguards to prevent abuse.