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Screening for Drinking Problems in the Elderly in Singapore Using the CAGE Questionnaire.
Clarissa Wy Ong1, Vathsala Sagayadevan, Edimansyah Abdin
1Research Division, Institute of Mental Health, Singapore.
Annals of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore
|November 11, 2016
Summary
This study found that 4.2% of elderly Singapore residents experienced drinking problems, which were linked to depression. Identifying these issues is crucial for effective treatment planning in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited research exists on alcohol use among the elderly.
- Previous studies predominantly focused on younger populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of drinking problems in older adults in Singapore.
- To identify factors associated with alcohol use and drinking problems in the elderly population.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Well-being of the Singapore Elderly (WiSE) study.
- Analyzed a nationally representative sample of 2565 Singapore residents aged 60 and above.
- Assessed drinking problems (CAGE score ≥2), depression, anxiety, obesity, smoking, chronic conditions, and disability.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of drinking problems among the elderly was 4.2%.
- Male sex, Indian ethnicity, and being divorced/separated were significantly associated with higher odds of drinking problems.
- Individuals with drinking problems showed a higher likelihood of subthreshold depression, but no significant differences in disability were observed.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight a significant association between drinking problems and depressive symptoms in the elderly.
- Screening for depression in elderly individuals with drinking problems can aid in identifying comorbidities.
- This research supports integrated treatment planning for co-occurring conditions in older adults.
