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Published on: November 15, 2024
Elevated alcohol consumption among geriatric psychiatric in-patients
Anne-Sofie Helvik1, Knut Engedal2, Aud Johannessen3
1Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim; and Norwegian National advisory unit for aging and health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Trondheim, Norway.
A significant number of older adults in geriatric psychiatric care reported elevated alcohol consumption. Factors like older age and antidepressant use were linked to lower consumption rates.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Alcohol Use Disorders
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Established link between elevated alcohol consumption and psychiatric issues in older adults.
- Limited data on alcohol consumption prevalence in geriatric psychiatric patients.
- Need to understand alcohol use patterns in this specific population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of self-reported elevated alcohol consumption in Norwegian geriatric psychiatry outpatients.
- To identify factors associated with elevated alcohol consumption in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 367 geriatric psychiatry patients (aged ≥ 65) from December 2016 to December 2018.
- Elevated alcohol consumption assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-C).
- Analysis included demographic data, cognitive function, psychiatric diagnosis, and psychotropic medication use.
Main Results:
- 27% of patients reported elevated alcohol consumption, with no gender difference.
- Older age, living with a partner, and antidepressant use were associated with reduced odds of elevated alcohol consumption.
- Odds ratios (OR) indicated significant associations: OR 0.93 (age), OR 0.54 (living with someone), OR 0.54 (antidepressants).
Conclusions:
- A substantial proportion of older psychiatric patients exhibit elevated alcohol consumption.
- Elevated alcohol consumption prevalence was observed across various diagnoses.
- Older age, cohabitation, and antidepressant therapy correlate with lower reported alcohol intake.
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