Substance abuse, misuse, and dependence should be considered in the evaluation of every geriatric patient, including those who reside in nursing homes. Problems resulting from alcohol and prescription drugs may be particularly important in elderly patients who present with demenatia, depression, or both. A thorough substance use history and drug inventory should be taken in all cases. Hospitalization may be indicated for detoxification or gradual withdrawal from alcohol or a chronically used drug. Although there are few data on the treatment of prescription drug disorders, geriatric alcoholism has been successfully treated in settings that are sensitive to the needs of the elderly
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Abrams et al. (1987) studied this question.
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