Care Considerations for Addressing Substance Use and the Opioid Epidemic Among Older Adult Populations

Substance Use disorders in Older Adults is a growing problem not only in the United States, but throughout the developed world. This may be particularly relevant among people from the Baby Boomer generation, born between 1946 and 1964. 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 presentation will look at the prevalence of substance use among older people with an added focus on opioid epidemiology. It will also provide an overview for screening and identifying substance use within this population group. Additionally, a broad biopsychosocial framework and sociohistorical lens will be utilized to analyze risk factors and vulnerabilities for substance use among older people. The presentation will conclude with care considerations that integrate psychosocial aspects of well-being and reinforce the importance of psychotherapeutic interventions.

Learning Objectives

Review the opioid epidemiology and prevalence of substance use disorders within older adult populations. Describe the signs and symptoms of substance use and misuse in older people Recognize broader sociohistorical perspectives and apply a biopsychosocial lens for understanding risk factors for and vulnerabilities with substance use among older people. Assess the relevance and importance of psychotherapeutic intervention in older people, especially integrated health solutions, evidence-based health promotion programs, and alternatives for pain management.

Presentation Format: This session will take place in a Zoom meeting format. Participants will have access to camera and audio, though neither is required. For more information on the use of Zoom please visit the Getting Started with Zoom Videoconferencing Software section of our website

Presented by:

Lawrence Bryant PhD, MPH, BSW, RRT
With over 25 years of experience in the behavioral health and medical fields, Dr Bryant is a solution-focused professional dedicated to improving health outcomes through education, research, and consultation. His expertise encompasses developing curricula, training medical providers, and providing technical assistance in areas such as substance use disorders, HIV/AIDS, and respiratory therapy. As a seasoned leader in program management, Dr Bryant successfully developed and executed a statewide strategic plan addressing the opioid and prescription drug overdose epidemic in Georgia, showcasing his ability to navigate and manage complex challenges effectively.Dr. David Duncan, DO, FAAFP
Dr. David Duncan is a board-certified family medicine and addiction medicine physician with over two decades of clinical and leadership experience in correctional, military, and federal health systems. He currently serves as a telemedicine consultant with the Addiction Medicine Central Team for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), providing expert care for substance use disorders across all 31 CDCR institutions. He also mentors primary care providers and addiction medicine fellows from UCSF and UCLA.Continuing Education Units: 2 CEUs

This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.