Long-Term Care and Alcohol Use

Alcohol use and misuse for seniors living in long-term care (LTC) settings (i.e., assisted living facilities, nursing homes, senior high-rise communities) are examined. LTC residents with alcohol misuse are more likely to suffer from illness and may also have a higher mortality rate along with significantly greater use of health services. Alcohol misuse often goes undetected in these LTC populations, therefore detection is discussed. The opportunity to implement appropriate policies and procedures for prevention and screening, and effective treatment programs for seniors with alcohol misuse are also discussed. Moreover, seniors with alcohol misuse also present more challenges for LTC staff, thus caregiving options are also addressed.