This module describes the characteristics of substance use disorders and substance misuse patterns in older adults. This includes illicit drug use, prescription drug misuse, alcohol-related disorders, and tobacco use. The opioid misuse problem in adults age 55+ is discussed. The course outlines assessing older adults for substance misuse and compares these usage patterns in older adults with those of other populations. After viewing this module, practitioners will be able to describe and implement a brief motivational intervention as a component of care and assess and utilize other treatment modalities.

Audience: RN/IP

Care of Older Adults in the Long-Term Care Setting (COA-LTC) is a series created by the Hartford Institute of Geriatric Nursing (HIGN) at NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, in partnership with ArchCare, the Continuing Care Community of the Archdiocese of New York. The program was created to assure that all healthcare team members have the knowledge to care for older adults in long-term care settings. The program promotes team-based, coordinated, person-centered, evidence-based care for older adults.