Exploratory Single-System Analyses of Moderation-Based Brief Treatments With Middle-Aged and Older Heavy Drinkers

Abstract

As baby boomers age, identifying effective and efficacious interventions for older adults (OA) with alcohol use disorder is vital for the ongoing viability of the health care system. Brief alcohol use disorder interventions with OA have yet to be examined in the context of studies with high internal validity. Post-hoc, exploratory, single-system analyses were performed on 10 OA and 13 middle-aged problem drinkers who had participated in a randomized controlled trial. Their trajectories were compared to peer age groups who received no treatment. Although OA appeared to respond to most interventions, some interventions yielded greater response than others. Implications are discussed.

Keywords:

• alcohol
• brief interventions
• moderation
• older adults
• single-system analysis