Citation

Lynch CA, Moran M, Lawlor BA. Int. J. Geriatr. Psychiatry 2007; 23(1): 1-6.

Affiliation

Mercer's Institute for Research on Ageing, St James's Hospital, Dublin 8. (aoiblynch@gmail.com)

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1002/gps.1922

PMID

18081001

Abstract

Risk assessment is a key component in the evaluation of dementia. In assessing a person with dementia, safety issues (e.g. involving driving, cooking or wandering) are commonly considered. Standardized assessments and management guidelines have been developed in relation to some of these areas, which may aid the doctor in advising a patient and their family. However, no guidelines exist regarding the appropriate management of the person with dementia who may own or have access to a firearm.

Risk assessment in relation to firearms and mental illness is complex due to the relapsing and remitting nature of most psychiatric disturbances in adults. However, by its progressive nature, dementia differs somewhat. The natural history of dementia is such that cognitive deficits will progressively worsen and behavioural symptoms, if not already present, may commonly develop during the course of the disease. Both cognitive decline and behavioural changes may adversely affect the capacity to handle a firearm safely.

Contains literature review and policy recommendations.

Language: en