Sectioning the Elderly?

[Rog1219]

Under what conditions can you section someone who is elderly, what rights do they have and is it possible a relative can section them?

[woofgang]

all the info here

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/2204983.stm

a relative can start the process but it takes a doctor to do it

[Buenchico]

Health professionals would be extremely hesitant about using the 'sectioning' procedures without the initial intervention of the relevant social services department (or, where relevant, the police).

Social services departments always work to a policy of providing support in the home environment (rather than in a hospital) whenever possible.

This link gives guidance on relevant policy:
http://www.scie.org.uk/publications/practiceguides/bpg2/ section09/index.asp

Chris

[Goodsoulette]

My nan is just getting to that forgetfull stage, probably onset of alzheimers. Its very upsetting cause whren she misplaces stuff she soon accuses you of stealing it.

She is going for an assesment to see how much she can cope on her own on the 28th. dont think you can section the person but our first step was getting social services involved and then they set up for someone to visit nan every day, they check she has eaten, really they are supposed to cook for her and wash up her main meal but she does it herself b4 they get there.

I will post here so I can give you some first hand experience but my advice would be get in touch with your local social services.

[bracknell]

someone can only be sectioned when they are either a danger to themselves or are mentally no longer capable and can only be done with the intervention os Social Services and a GP.