[Identifying and treating alcohol use disorders in the elderly]

IDENTIFYING AND TREATING ALCOHOL USE DISORDERS IN THE ELDERLY Aging does not prevent the occurrence of alcohol use disorders, the frequency of which declines little with age. And advancing age increases the risks and effects of alcohol consumption (even seemingly modest) or the damages caused by alcohol use disorders. Polypathology, which is more frequent with age and a source of polymedication for the elderly, further increases the risks and damages incurred, as does the concomitant use of other psychoactive substances. These disorders are often undiagnosed, revealing themselves when complications arise. Systematic screening is then necessary. The prognosis of care at all stages of alcohol misuse in the elderly is as good as or better than in younger people, even if certain care strategies must be adapted.