Strategies for Preventing Substance Misuse in Older Adults

There is growing concern among prevention specialists and public health officials regarding older adults and substance use, misuse, and increasing substance use disorders. Substance use in older adults is complicated and is often overlooked, especially when individuals are experiencing other aging related health conditions. While the number of older adults experiencing substance use disorders dramatically increased in the last 20 years, prevention services have not been tailored to the needs of older adults. This webinar will highlight the growing problem, approaches to understanding the older adult population in your community, and available strategies. Additionally, we will hear directly from preventionists who are implementing programming with this population.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Describe how to assess the prevention needs of older adults in your community.
• Identify strategies to prevent substance misuse and promote the health and well-being of older adults.
• Understand approaches and barriers to engaging older adults in prevention efforts.
• Develop new partnerships that can work across sectors to engage older adults.