CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Introduction

1. Overview
2. Recognizing Alcohol Misuse and Abuse in Older Adults
3. Alcohol and Aging
4. Diagnosing Alcohol Problems in Older Adults
5. Recognizing Other Forms of Substance Abuse
6. Prevention and Early Intervention Strategies
7. Treatment
8. Outcomes and Cost Issues in Alcohol Treatment for Older Adults
9. Legal and Ethical Issues

Supplements
Resources

Substance Abuse and Older Adults:
Alcohol, Medication and Older Adults (for those who care for an older adult)

Protective Factors

Protective factors increase resistance to alcohol and drugs. They promote healthy behavior by empowering individuals to manage life events. They also offset risk factors. Protective factors for older adults include:

• Access to resources, such as housing and health care
• Availability of support networks and social bonds
• Involvement in community activities
• Supportive family relationships
• Education (e.g., wise use of medications) and skills
• Sense of purpose and identity
• Ability to live independently