Substance use among the elderly is not just a reality but also a growing problem. Seniors are especially vulnerable because of the unique challenges they face from the natural aging process. This population’s health needs continue to be ignored, which places them at a higher risk for alcohol and drug abuse.
Incorporating age-sensitive and age-specific treatment practices into programs is important for engaging older clients and improving their retention in treatment. The older adult population is culturally, racially, and ethnically diverse. Recognize and address diversity and health disparity issues related to aging. Collaboration among service providers across settings is essential when working with older adults who misuse substances, particularly for those with co-occurring medical conditions and mental disorders.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Determine the epidemiology and substance use trends substance use among the elderly.
- Identify and address warning signs of illicit substance use.
- Apply Preventative Approaches: Techniques for guiding choices.
Syllabus:
Introduction to Substance Use in the Elderly
- Recognize the growing prevalence of substance use disorders among older adults
- Understand why this population is particularly vulnerable due to aging-related changes
- Address cultural and generational attitudes toward substance use in older adults
Objective #1: Substance Use Trends and Generational Differences
- Contrast substance attitudes of pre-boomers and baby boomers
- Identify increasing trends in alcohol, opioid, and marijuana use in older adults
- Understand the role of chronic illness and prescription medications in substance misuse
Objective #2: Risk Factors and Impact of Aging
- Explore the physiological effects of aging that increase susceptibility to substances
- Discuss social and psychological risk factors including grief, isolation, and retirement
- Address issues of polypharmacy and accidental misuse of medications
Objective #3: Recognizing Signs of Substance Misuse in Older Adults
- Identify common behavioral and cognitive signs of misuse
- Understand how symptoms can mimic or be mistaken for normal aging or other illnesses
- Review warning signs such as doctor shopping, confusion, secrecy, and changes in mood or hygiene
Objective #4: Grief, Loss, and Emotional Triggers
- Examine the impact of cumulative losses and complicated grief
- Understand how remorse, regrets, and unresolved trauma contribute to substance use
- Provide strategies to support emotional processing and re-engagement with life
Objective #5: Assessment Techniques for Older Adults
- Use collaborative, non-stigmatizing approaches to engagement
- Implement culturally sensitive and age-appropriate screening methods
- Apply tools such as the DSM-5 criteria, AUDIT, and CUDIT for assessment
- Modify screening language to avoid reinforcing shame or resistance
Objective #6: Preventive Approaches and Education
- Teach older adults to manage medications carefully and avoid dangerous combinations
- Provide psychoeducation on the risks of alcohol and drug use in later life
- Promote daily practices that enhance meaning, connection, and purpose
- Guide clients in building social support networks and using community resources
Objective #7: Effective Treatment Strategies
- Incorporate motivational interviewing, CBT, and supportive therapy
- Modify environments and services to accommodate vision, hearing, and mobility needs
- Encourage respect for the client’s lived experience and personal values
- Create a treatment pace that allows for repetition, reflection, and gradual change
Objective #8: Family Involvement and Social Support
- Emphasize the importance of including family and caregivers in the recovery process
- Support families in setting healthy boundaries and understanding substance use in aging
- Address stigma and generational differences in views about addiction and treatment
Key Takeaways and Call to Action
- Increase awareness of the growing substance use crisis among seniors
- Recognize that successful treatment outcomes are achievable at any age
- Promote compassionate, informed, and collaborative care practices
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dr. Paul Hardy, D.Min. NMAC, CSAC
Recording Date: 2/09/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com