Question 7

80-year-old Mr Johnson has been diagnosed with Alzheimers disease and is rapidly declining in his overall state of health and wellbeing, although he is still able to function at a functional capacity. His doctors have informed Ellen, his daughter, that she needs to move him into a better care facility who are able to strictly monitor her father on a daily basis.

Ellen suggests this as an option to her father, however he is adamant that he can continue living in his own home with minor support. His doctors consider this unsafe for Mr Johnson, but he feels strongly about his decision and refuses to change his mind.

Ellen is not comfortable with her fathers decision and advises his doctors that he will be moving to the recommended facility the following Friday.

On the Friday morning Mr Johnson is taken unwillingly to the care facility.

1. Would you consider Ellens choices unlawful? Explain your answer.