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Addiction in Older Adults 2025 (NA2505)


Author(s): Patsy Barnes, RN, BA


Pre-Approved for: ACM, CCAPP, CCLCP, CCM, CDMS, CE Broker Provider, CLCP, CMCPS, COHN/COHN-S, CRCC, CVE, CVRP, Delaware BON, FCB, MCBAP-Specific , MSCC, RNs


Credit Hours: 5


Course Format

This course is online. All course material is available online and is accessible immediately after purchase from your account homepage. Certificate of Completion is available immediately upon passing the exam.

Course Overview

Addiction among older adults is frequently overlooked, underdiagnosed, and it poses significant health risks. The ageing population of baby boomers, who have longstanding exposure to drugs and alcohol dating back to the cultural shifts of the 1960s and 1970s, often receive insufficient screening for substance use disorders. Clinicians may be reluctant to inquire about alcohol and drug consumption in this demographic, which can hinder effective care.

This course provides comprehensive insights into the prevalence and patterns of substance use and misuse in older adults, along with practical strategies for healthcare providers to address the topic with their patients. Various validated screening tools are available, ranging from brief questionnaires to in-depth multi-item instruments, to support routine assessment.
 
While addiction manifests similarly across age groups, older adults face distinct risk factors. Canadian research highlights similar challenges domestically and offers valuable information regarding opioid use disorder (OUD) and the effects of marijuana on older adults.


Course Objectives

  1. Explain the term addiction and the DSM-5 requirements.

  2. Describe the addiction-brain connection.

  3. Discuss risks for addiction in older adults.

  4. Present the various screening tools that can be used with older adults.

  5. Describe the management of older adults with SUD.

  6. List behavioral addictions specific to older adults.

  7. Explain the Canadian recommendations for managing opioid use disorder in older adults.

Course Outline

  1. Overview of Addiction

  2. The Brain-Addiction Connection

  3. Substance Use in Older Adults

  4. Older Adults and Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

  5. Guidelines for Talking to Older Adults

  6. Alcohol and Aging

  7. Screening Tools and Management for Older Adults with SUD

  8. Behavioral Addictions in Older Adults

  9. Canadian Information on Older Adult Addiction

Course Price

$40.00

Customer Testimonial

Thank you for this opportunity. Grateful for all I have learned. Will refer to this book like a bible. Everything I deal with every day but clarified everything! The staff and owners are compassionate and kind. Thank you Thank you.
Marisa B.