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

At Any Age, It Does Matter:
Substance Abuse and Older Adults (for Professionals)

Medical and Psychological Profile of Stages/Types of Use

In diagnosing alcohol problems in older adults, it is important to understand the person’s history and medical condition, as well as any psychosocial factors. These factors vary depending on the stage of use, as does the prognosis for treatment. No one should be deemed hopeless, but different factors affect treatment.

One category that is often overlooked is the "risky" drinker. Risky drinkers may currently show no signs of an alcohol-related problem. However, if their rate of consumption continues, problems may arise. In older adults, risky drinking is 10 to 15 drinks per week for men and 7 to 9 drinks per week for women or more than 4 drinks on any drinking occasion.

The chart shows history, medical problems, social problems, psychological problems, and prognosis for four categories of drinkers.