One last pleasure? Alcohol use among elderly people in nursing homes

The study discussed in this article describes the alcohol-related policies, practices, and problems experienced by a sample of 111 intermediate care facilities and homes for elderly people. Data were collected using a semi-structured telephone interview and indicate that alcohol use and associated problems among nursing home residents are common. Despite the problems reported, screening for alcohol problems among residents, treatment of identified problems, and training of staff were not found to be widespread. Ambiguity about the role of alcohol as a social beverage or as a psychoactive substance to be managed was identified. Challenges to social workers and social work education are identified.