11 February 2014
Researchers:
S. Wadd, J. Randall, A. Thake, K. Edwards, S.Galvani, L. McCabe, A. Coleman.
Substance Misuse and Ageing Research Team, University of Bedfordshire, Bedford Community Mental Health Team for Older People, South Essex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, University of Hertfordshire, School of Applied Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Older Focus Team, Addiction NI
Key findings
- There may be a significant amount of undiagnosed cognitive impairment in older people (aged 55 and over) attending substance misuse services.
- Cognitive impairment screening in substance misuse services is acceptable to older service users.
- Cognitive impairment can make it difficult for older people to benefit fully from alcohol treatment but treatment can be modified take account of cognitive difficulties.
- It is possible to screen people with mild cognitive impairment or early stage dementia for alcohol problems
