Substance abuse and the elderly: Unique issues and concerns

Data indicate that substance abuse problems are common in the elderly but are largely ignored. The elderly cohort of abusers is divided into early and late onset groups. Abuse moderating factors include cohort effects, socioeconomic status, and frail health, while exacerbating factors include discretionary income, status as a hidden population, and caregiver complicity. Physiological and psychological influences are concomitant to substance abuse. A number of screening instruments exist and treatment should be tailored to the unique needs of the elderly population.