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

Module 7: Treatment - Page 7 of 19

Effectiveness of Treatment

The effectiveness of treatment for specific individuals is not always predictable. In addition, different programs and approaches have variable rates of success. However, evaluations of substance abuse treatment efforts are encouraging. All the long-term studies find that "treatment works." Most substance-dependent patients eventually stop compulsive use and have less frequent and severe relapse episodes.2,3

The most positive effects generally happen while the patient is actively participating in treatment. Still, prolonged abstinence following treatment is a good predictor of continuing success. Almost 90 percent of those who remain abstinent for 2 years are also drug- and alcohol-free at 10 years.2

Patients who remain in treatment for longer periods of time are also likely to achieve maximum benefits. Duration of treatment for 3 months or longer is often a predictor of a successful outcome.4

Individuals who have lower levels of premorbid psychopathology and other serious social, vocational, and legal problems are most likely to benefit from treatment. Continuing participation in aftercare or self-help groups following treatment also appears to be associated with success.2

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