What is a potential consequence of using physical restraints on older adults in facilities?

Using physical restraints on older adults can indeed have serious consequences. One significant potential consequence is an increased risk of death, mainly due to the complications that arise from their use. Restraints can create a false sense of safety, but they can lead to physical injuries, decreased mobility, and other health issues, which may ultimately result in severe health deterioration or even mortality.

Additionally, physical restraints can exacerbate underlying health conditions. For example, they can lead to limiting elderly individuals' ability to move independently, putting them at risk for blood clots or respiratory complications like pneumonia, especially if they are immobile for extended periods.

Although physical restraints may be intended to prevent harm, their use can create a cycle of physical decline and psychological distress, dramatically increasing the likelihood of adverse outcomes, including death. These aspects reflect the need for restraint alternatives in care practices for the elderly, emphasizing dignity and independence while minimizing risk.