Methods and medication

Substance use disorder in elders can be treated in a variety of ways. There are several methods of treatment that are tailored to the individual and their specific needs. In this section, we will briefly discuss common SUD treatment methods.

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Brief Intervention
  • Provides education about the substance and risks of harm
  • Focuses heavily on motivation-based methods; encouraging change in the individual
  • Connects users to more intensive treatment methods, if necessary
  • Occurs in primary care settings
  • Feedback comparing the user’s drinking habits to their peers was found to be highly effective in older adults
  • Medications are approved by the FDA to treat SUD
  • Common medications used for treatment include: disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone
  • This treatment option is limited for older adults, as there is little research and evidence supporting the safety of the medications
  • Most of the research has been conducted on medications that treat smoking and alcohol use
  • Use non-traditional settings to engage older adults and connect them to treatment
  • Provides community resources to older adults who are isolated
  • Approaches the individual’s overall health and reduces stigma surrounding the disorder
  • Offered in primary care settings and community-based agencies
  • Recognizes that confrontational approaches generally do not work well with older adults
  • Designed to develop a community of support and help elders cope in a healthier way
  • Adapted to older adults and the unique issues they face, such as isolation and age-related health conditions
  • Focuses on identifying and changing the patterns of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that lead to substance abuse
  • Treatments are offered individually or in group settings
  • There is evidence supporting the effectiveness of CBT treatment with older adults
  • Self-help groups, such as Alcoholics or Narcotics Anonymous can help older adults reduce their isolation, shame and stigma surrounding an SUD
  • It is important to note that because some older adults do feel shame, they will be less likely to open up about their disorder in a group setting
  • Elders should be encouraged to attend at least one meeting to decide whether or not they like this form of treatment
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