Substance Abuse Among the Elderly: What is being overlooked?

Objective: Substance abuse amongst the elderly population has increased over the last decade creating a unique dilemma in the delivery of substance abuse treatment and prevention services. The current landscape of substance abuse services does not adequately address the fact that substance abuse has permeated the elderly society.

Methods: Substance consumption data for the nation was evaluated for the age group 50-64. Data from 1990-2002 were evaluated from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Trend data was analyzed from the SAMHSA Drug and Alcohol Services Information System Report.

Results: Research indicates that alcohol abuse is rising amongst the elderly. According to 1990-2002 BRFSS, there was a 33% increase in binge drinking amongst this age group and a 78% increase in chronic drinking. In 2002, over 616,000 adults age 55 and older reported alcohol dependence in the past year. Additionally, baby boomers accounted for half of all deaths from drug-related causes in 2003 while representing only 26% of the population. Adults in treatment age 55 to 59 increased 15.7% from 1995 to 2002.

Conclusion: This data suggests only a small fraction of the elderly is receiving substance abuse treatment. The data shows that the elderly generation is an at risk population in need of specialized substance abuse prevention and treatment services. Mainstream substance abuse treatment will not sufficiently address the unique needs of the elderly. With such a drastic rise in the elderly population it is imperative that appropriate treatment services are readily available.