Seeking help for drug addiction?

Addiction Advisor .co.uk is the leading online provider of free medical information about drug and alcohol addiction issues. You can receive independent, expert advice on addictions rehab and treatment by telephoning Addiction Advisor on 0845 370 0102

Risky drinking in over-55s becomes the focus of new research

A new study led by Simon Coulton, Professor of Health Services Research at the Centre for Health Services Studies University of Kent, aims to improve services for over-55s caught up in 'risky drinking'.

Traditionally, risky drinking in young men and women receives most attention but the ageing process means that older people experience alcohol-related problems at lower consumption levels. It is now estimated that 60% of older people coming into hospital because of repeated falls, confusion, chest infections and heart failure have undiagnosed alcohol problems.

Professor Coulton's study, which is funded by the NHS National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme, aims to determine whether screening by GPs followed by brief psychosocial interventions, which are stepped up in intensity, can help.

He explained: 'After identifying those who need help, the first step is behavioural counselling. If further help is required then the client is offered three sessions of motivational therapy. The third step is referral to specialist services.'

Professor Coulton also states that the existing evidence appears to show that, if offered treatment, older people are more likely to benefit from it. However, this is currently an under-researched area and, with the older population in the UK growing fast, one of increasing urgency.
The study, which will be conducted in association with the University of York, will compare a large group of people who receive the stepped treatment programme with a similar group who only receive minimal help. It will also investigate the economic benefits of the stepped approach.

Article originally published on 30/07/2008 by DryOutNow.com, the alcohol specific website for Addiction Advisor

Addictions Medical Research

• Risky drinking in over-55s becomes the focus of new research ...... read
• New drug and alcohol research presentations planned for annual meeting ...... read
• Coffee and cigarette consumption high among AA attendees ...... read
• The treatment of alcoholism: How recent research impacts on clinicians ...... read
• Dopamine shown to induce both desire and dread ...... read
• Pregnant substance users can deliver healthy babies with early treatment ...... read
• Minimum Drinking Age of 21 Saves Lives, Study Finds ...... read
• New Clinical Study for the Treatment of Opioid Dependence ...... read
• Broad Differences in Alcohol, Tobacco and Illegal Drug Use across Countries ...... read
• Binge drinking findings have implications for policy makers ...... read
• Kids connect alcohol odours with emotions ...... read
• Scientifically valid prevention programmes cut rates of juvenile delinquency ...... read
• United Nations Drugs Day ...... read
• Substance abuse problems could be addressed at a local level ...... read
• BMA backs alcohol action plan ...... read
• Tougher laws for drinks industry could be imminent in the UK ...... read
• Survey of Hispanics and alcohol dependence to be expanded ...... read
• Frequent family meals might reduce teen substance use ...... read
• Health campaigns could combat the Scottish effect ...... read
• Exposure-based addiction therapies could be extremely effective ...... read