Alcohol misuse in older people

Abstract

The clinical and public mental health aspects of alcohol misuse in older people (both men and women) have increasing relevance for both old age and addiction psychiatrists. Clinical presentations are often complex and involve a number of different psychiatric, physical, and psychosocial factors. The assessment, treatment, and aftercare of alcohol-related and other comorbid mental disorders will also involve a broad range of interventions from a wide range of practitioners. Given its growing clinical relevance, there are particular areas such as alcohol-related brain damage and drug interactions with alcohol that deserve special attention.