SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG OLDER ADULTS

Researchers are only beginning to realize the pervasiveness of substance abuse among people aged 65 and older. Until relatively recently, prescription drug misuse and alcohol abuse, which effects as many as 17 percent of older adults, was not discussed in either the substance abuse or the gerontological literature. Health care providers tend to overlook substance abuse and misuse among older people, mistaking the symptoms of those of dementia, depression or other problems common to older people. In addition, older adults are more likely to hide their substance abuse and less likely to seek professional help. Many relatives of older individuals with substance use disorders, particularly adult children, choose not to address it. The result is that thousands of older adults who need treatment do not receive it. In this seminar, participants will learn of risk factors, barriers to identification, and appropriate referral and treatment approaches.