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A Silent Trend in Canadian Long‑Term Care: Antipsychotic Use Without Diagnosis

  A recent report has revealed a troubling pattern in long‑term care (LTC) homes across Canada: one in four residents is being given antipsychotic medication despite having no diagnosis of psychosis . These drugs—intended to treat conditions involving delusions or hallucinations—are often being used instead to manage behavioural symptoms such as aggression or agitation, particularly among residents with dementia.  This trend has been growing in recent years. National data shows that potentially inappropriate antipsychotic use in LTC reached more than 24% in 2023–2024 , continuing an upward trajectory that began before the COVID‑19 pandemic. Rates vary widely across the country, with some jurisdictions approaching 35%. The pandemic intensified staffing shortages and disrupted person‑centred care practices, making it harder for facilities to rely on non‑pharmacological approaches.  Canada’s rate of inappropriate antipsychotic use is also high by international standards— ...

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How to Boost Your Financial Literacy in 5 Easy Steps

Financial literacy is the ability to understand and manage your personal finances. It involves skills such as budgeting, saving, investing, borrowing, and planning for the future. Financial literacy can help you achieve your financial goals, avoid debt, and build wealth.

Why is financial literacy important?

Financial literacy is important because it can help you make informed decisions about your money. Without financial literacy, you may not know how to:

- Create and follow a realistic budget that meets your needs and wants

- Save money for emergencies, retirement, education, or other goals

- Invest your money wisely and diversify your portfolio

- Avoid scams, frauds, and predatory lending practices

- Use credit cards responsibly and pay off your debts on time

- Understand your credit score and how to improve it

- Compare different financial products and services and choose the best ones for you

- Plan for your future and protect your assets


How can you improve your financial literacy?  You can improve your financial literacy by:

- Reading books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or videos about personal finance topics

- Taking online courses or workshops on financial education

- Consulting a financial planner, advisor, or coach who can guide you through your financial journey

- Joining a community or group of people who share your financial interests and goals

- Practicing your financial skills by applying what you learn to your own situation

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