SUBSTANCE ABUSERS TREATMENT

Treatment for older adult substance abusers

Treatment for Older Adult Substance Abusers

Introduction

The abuse and misuse of alcohol or drugs was once considered a problem only among the young. Unfortunately, substance abuse has become a growing problem among older adults as well. Community surveys suggest that misuse of alcohol or other drugs is a common cause of physical and mental health problems in older Americans, especially older men. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to the mental and physical effects of these substances, because of the changes that happen in our minds and bodies as we age. In fact, negative health consequences are sometimes seen in older adults at a level of alcohol or drug use that would be considered light to moderate in younger people (Gfroerer Penne, Pemberton, & Folsom, 2002).

Substance abuse has clear and profound effects on the health and well-being of older adults in all aspects of life. Many different organ systems can be damaged by substance abuse (Caracci, & Miller, 1991, 179-191). The social and economic impact is also tremendous. Substance abuse has negative effects on self-esteem, coping skills, and interpersonal relationships, which can add to other losses that are common in the later stages of life.

Many terms are used to define different levels of substance misuse, including dependence, abuse, problem use, and at-risk use. The medical definitions for these terms vary, but they all refer to the use of chemical substances in ways that lead to problems or disability, or to an increased risk of problems or disability. The first step is realizing that substance abuse is occurring, which can be difficult in older adults.

Question 1: what research has been done and shown for this topic you have chosen?

The research shows that Alcohol abuse and prescription drug misuse is prevalent in older adults aged 60 and over. The Department of Health and Human Services Treatment Improvement Protocol for substance abuse among older adults (1998) estimates up to 17 percent of adults aged 60 and over may be affected(Department of Health and Human Services, 1998).

However, less is known about the abuse of illicit drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine and heroin. Estimates of illicit drug abuse in older adults have traditionally been low, from less than 1% (Caracci & Miller, 1991) to 2.2% (Colliver, Compton, Gfroerer, & Condon, 2006). This is thought to be due in part to the generational differences in illegal drug use, a practice that was severely discouraged in the current cohort of older adults. However, this number is projected to substantially increase as the baby boomer generation ages. This generation, born between the years of 1946 and 1964, has had a more liberal attitude towards the use of illicit drugs from a much younger age. Substance abuse problems are more likely to develop when high risk behaviors start at a younger age, following a cohort through life. The number of adults over 50 with any substance abuse problems is projected to double from about ...