Creating A Better Baker Act In Citrus County

The Florida Baker Act, which provides for involuntary institutionalization of individuals deemed to be a danger to themselves and others, was never intended as a tool to manage individuals living with dementia. Yet, it is too frequently applied by both lay and professional caregivers for that purpose, and often with unfavorable and even tragic results. This booklet recommends four components to create a "Better Baker Act." None of these is radical, expensive, controversial, or unattainable, and all are based on principals of person-centered compassionate care. They require no change in the law, but can result in less trauma for our loved ones living with dementia. These recommendations address Florida law and practices, but every state in the United States has laws similar to the Baker Act. The measures described herein are likely to be beneficial in all jurisdictions.