Substance abuse treatment initiation among older adults in the GET SMART program: effects of depression and cognitive status.

This study examines how individual patient characteristics predict substance abuse treatment initiation among older adults, in an investigation based on the behavioral health service use model. Analyses tested the impact of demographic factors, substance abuse symptoms, depression and cognitive status on subsequent treatment initiation. The sample included 250 older male veterans screened for substance abuse problems during inpatient medical treatment, who also participated in a clinical evaluation for substance abuse treatment.

Predictors of alcohol-treatment seeking in a sample of older veterans in the GET SMART program.

Objectives: To examine the predictive value of demographic characteristics and substance abuse indicators to explain treatment seeking for substance abuse problems by older male medical patients.

Design: Longitudinal analysis of screening data and treatment-seeking behavior.

Setting: Inpatient medical and outpatient substance abuse treatment center.

Portraits of change: case studies from an elder-specific addiction program.

The authors describe two case histories of patients served by the GET SMART program that provide a glimpse of typical client substance abuse histories and their remarkable journeys of change. An age-specific outpatient program for older veterans with illicit drug and alcohol dependence, the GET SMART program uses individualized and group treatment interventions in an environment of collaboration, respect, and hope. The program employs the stages of change framework and a clinical framework that includes cognitive-behavioral and motivational interviewing approaches.