NCJ Number
160663
Date Published
1994
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Because alcoholism in the elderly has unique causes and characteristics, treatments designed specifically for the elderly might help combat their addiction.
Abstract
Findings show that alcohol is the drug of choice for the older adult. Late-life alcohol abuse is increasing and is recognized as a significant problem. Major causes of problem drinking among the elderly are the loss of productive social roles and status, loneliness, boredom, the loss of those close to them, and the absence of supportive social relationships. Depression is the most prevalent nonorganic mental disorder in later life. The consequences of alcohol abuse in the elderly include depression, malnutrition, insomnia, cognitive problems, and loss of interest in life. Older adults, especially those with late-onset alcoholism, have a better treatment prognosis than any other age group. Prevention is the first means of treatment. Education of older adults regarding the hazards of a "quick fix" to deal with life's problems, and the availability of other resources to help them when in need is essential. Older alcohol abusers require the same range of services needed by younger alcohol abusers, such as detoxification facilities, residential or outpatient care, alcohol education, and individual and group therapies. A necessarily broad range of treatment should include providing the means to cope with the problems of later life: adjustment to loss of income, spouse, or health; rebuilding social support networks; and general problemsolving. Involvement in formal community networks, especially voluntary organizations and religious involvement, can be helpful. Early-onset alcohol abusers may also need compulsory supervision, consistent aversive experiences related to drinking, or substitute social dependency. Mechanisms of prevention and early identification of alcohol abuse in older adults must be devised to curtail later expensive institutionalization.