Description
Substance Use disorders in Older Adults is a growing problem not only in the United States throughout the developed world. The Baby Boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964 is turning 54-72 years of age this year. This group will present with more substance use disorders and need for substance use treatment going forward. The use of an artificial cut off age of 65 years of age as the definition of elderly or old is somewhat arbitrary and this will be discussed. The module will look at the prevalence, screening and treatment of tobacco, alcohol, opioids, non-medical use of prescription drugs and illicit opioids as well as stimulants and cocaine, marijuana and non-opioid sedative hypnotic agents. A case vignette will drive the CME portion and elucidate the tenants of the module.
Target Audience
Physicians, nurses, and healthcare teams who are treating patients with substance use disorder (SUD).
Presenter
Luis A. Trevisan, MD | Associate Professor of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine; National Tele Mental Health Center: SUD Lead Consultant, VA Connecticut Healthcare System
Credit Designations Available
Interprofessional Continuing Education credit, AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, and Nursing Contact Hours.
Core Competencies as a result of participating in this activity
Interpersonal Skills and Communication
Medical Knowledge
Patient Care
Educational Objectives
At the conclusion of this activity participants should be able to:
Review the prevalence of substance use disorders in older people.
Describe the signs and symptoms of substance use and misuse in older people.
Recognize the psychopharmacology of substance use disorders in older people.
Assess the relevance and importance of psychotherapeutic intervention in older people
Method of participating in the learning process
In order to receive maximum credit, learners must:
1. Review the materials provided in this module.
2. Earn a minimum cumulative score of 80% on the post-test.
3. Complete an evaluation to assess satisfaction and plans for individual and/or team practice change.
4. Follow instructions at the end of the course regarding how to retrieve a certificate.*
*Credit will not be awarded unless all components of the program are completed. Partial credit will not be awarded.