Substance Abuse and Co-occurring Psychiatric Disorders in Older Adults: A Clinical Case and Review of the Relevant Literature

Abstract

Substance misuse is predicted to become an increasing problem in the older adult population. Individuals with psychiatric symptoms are at increased risk for a co-occurring substance use disorder, further complicating accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The abuse of substances, including alcohol and prescribed or illicit drugs, can have deleterious effects on an individual's emotional, physical and cognitive well-being. These effects may be exacerbated by age and, therefore, potential substance misuse should be screened for as rigorously in older patients as in younger adults. Despite research into patterns and consequences of alcohol and prescription drug misuse in older populations, there are limited data on the use of other illicit substances. Most treatment protocols have been developed in younger populations, but basic premises have been extrapolated and revised to suit older adults.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to acknowledge the input and advice of Dr. Olivera Bogunovic in the preparation of this manuscript. No financial support was received, nor were grants received. This article has not yet been presented at a meeting.