How do you effectively evaluate the elderly for alcohol use disorder?

[摘要] Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant problem in the elderly and one that is often undiagnosed, resulting in increasing emotional, physical, and social consequences. In 2019, Americans over age 65 accounted for 16.5% of the population (about 54 million), with a projection to reach 22% of the total population (81 million) by 2040.1,2 It is estimated that AUD afflicts about 1% to 3% of the elderly, but in treatment settings such as doctors’ offices and emergency departments, it may be 10 times more frequent. Studies from primary care settings show that alcohol problems exist in 10% to 15% of older adults, 30% of hospitalized older adults in general medicine, and about 50% of those hospitalized in psychiatric divisions.3 Recent studies show that although the vast majority of those with alcohol use disorder see their doctors regularly for a range of issues, fewer than 1 in 10 ever gets treatment for drinking.

[学科分类] 卫生学