Family Behavior Therapy for Alcohol and Drug Problems in Later-Life

ABSTRACT

Alcohol and drug use problems among older individuals are a growing public health concern. However, few treatments have been developed for this population, despite an emerging body of literature suggesting that older substance users are more likely to benefit from interventions tailored to meet their specific needs. In particular, older adults with a history of substance abuse have expressed a preference for treatments that focus on financial problems, physical health, and mobility issues, and make attempts to prescriptively involve supportive others in treatment. To address these needs, we developed a modified version of Family Behavior Therapy (FBT) for older individuals with substance use problems that involves participation from significant others and covers skills that are relevant to an older clientele. This modified form of FBT is illustrated through the case of Jack—a 55-year-old man with a longstanding addiction to methamphetamine. After completing 16 sessions, Jack’s alcohol and drug use was substantially reduced, and he reported strong confidence in his ability to resist substance use in the future. Despite this promising first case, further work is needed to fully examine the efficacy of this modified version of FBT for older individuals with substance use problems.

KEYWORDS:

• Behavioral interventions
• behavior problems
• family therapy
• older adult
• substance abuse

Acknowledgment

This work was supported by a University of Nevada, Las Vegas Faculty Opportunity Award granted to Dr. Jason Holland.