Substance use disorders in the elderly

Psychoactive substances use is a growing challenge in the elderly. The purpose of this research is to investigate and summarize the most basic issues related to epidemiology, screening and treatment interventions for substance use disorders in the elderly. In this research, the literature review method was used. Results showed alcohol, tobacco, opioids and prescription drugs are the most common psychoactive substances used by the elderly. The elderly are prone to the use of substances often because of age-related burdens such as physical complaints and pain, retirement, financial losses, changes of the living situation, or social losses. At present, screening tools for the elderly are limited to alcohol. Due to the similarity of substance use syndrome with depression, delirium or dementia syndrome in the elderly, screening and assessment of comorbidities are of particular importance. The research literature related to the effectiveness and efficiency of treatment interventions for substance use disorders in the elderly is low and needs further research. The results of this study showed that therapeutic interventions for the elderly with substance use disorders should be adapted for them and that the identification and management of substance use disorders should be considered as part of the initial assessment of the elderly.