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Elderly vs. younger problem drinker 'treatment' and recovery experiences
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Iowa, Iowa City 52242.
British Journal of Addiction
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Elderly problem drinkers are not disadvantaged in treatment access or recovery rates compared to younger individuals. Older adults arrested for drinking and driving showed similar or better engagement and recovery outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Addiction Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Problem drinking among the elderly is a growing concern.
- Little is known about treatment access and recovery rates for older problem drinkers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare treatment utilization and recovery rates between elderly and younger individuals arrested for OWI.
- To investigate potential discrimination or disadvantages faced by elderly problem drinkers.
Main Methods:
- A representative sample of individuals arrested for OWI in Iowa were interviewed post-arrest and 12 months later.
- Comparison groups included younger adults (18-54) and elderly adults (55+ and 65+).
- Elderly subjects were further categorized into early-onset and late-onset problem drinking groups.
Main Results:
- Elderly individuals were as likely or more likely than younger individuals to make treatment contact.
- The elderly group demonstrated similar or higher rates of remaining in treatment.
- Recovery rates were comparable or more favorable in the elderly population.
Conclusions:
- Age does not appear to be a barrier to treatment engagement or successful recovery for problem drinkers.
- Elderly problem drinkers utilize and benefit from treatment at rates equal to or exceeding those of younger individuals.