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Community Based Interventions for Problematic Substance Use in Later Life: A Systematic Review of Evaluated Studies and Their Outcomes

Author

Listed:
  • Trish Hafford-Letchfield

    (School of Social Work and Social Policy, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 OLT, UK)

  • Tricia McQuarrie

    (Department of Mental Health and Social Work, Middlesex University, London NWA 4BT, UK)

  • Carmel Clancy

    (Department of Mental Health and Social Work, Middlesex University, London NWA 4BT, UK)

  • Betsy Thom

    (Department of Mental Health and Social Work, Middlesex University, London NWA 4BT, UK)

  • Briony Jain

    (Department of Mental Health and Social Work, Middlesex University, London NWA 4BT, UK)

Abstract

Problematic substance use (PSU) in later life is a growing global problem of significant concern in tandem with a rapidly ageing global population. Prevention and interventions specifically designed for older people are not common, and those designed for mixed-age groups may fail to address the unique and sometimes complex needs of ageing communities. We report findings from a systematic review of the empirical evidence from studies which formally evaluated interventions used with older people and reported their outcomes. Nineteen studies were included, of which thirteen focused solely on alcohol-related problems. Eight interventions utilised different types of screening, brief advice and education. The remaining drew on behavioural, narrative and integrated or multi-disciplinary approaches, which aimed to meet older people’s needs holistically. Quality assessment of study design helped to review evaluation practice. Findings point to recommendations for sustainable and well-designed intervention strategies for PSU in later life, which purposefully align with other areas of health and well-being and are delivered in locations where older people normally seek, or receive, help. There is further scope for engagement with older people’s own perspectives on their needs and help-seeking behaviours. Economic evaluation of the outcome of interventions would also be useful to establish the value of investing in targeted services to this underserved population.

Suggested Citation

  • Trish Hafford-Letchfield & Tricia McQuarrie & Carmel Clancy & Betsy Thom & Briony Jain, 2020. "Community Based Interventions for Problematic Substance Use in Later Life: A Systematic Review of Evaluated Studies and Their Outcomes," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(21), pages 1-26, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:17:y:2020:i:21:p:7994-:d:437621
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bernice L. Neugarten, 1974. "Age Groups in American Society and the Rise of the Young-Old," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 415(1), pages 187-198, September.
    2. Schonfeld, L. & Hazlett, R.W. & Hedgecock, D.K. & Duchene, D.M. & Burns, L.V. & Gum, A.M., 2015. "Screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment for older adults with substance misuse," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 105(1), pages 205-211.
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