Here is a detailed description of an innovative approach for treating elderly persons who have alcohol or drug problems. During the past few years there has been growing recognition of the special needs of these individuals. Addictions Treatment for Older Adults describes the evaluation of the Community Older Persons Alcohol (COPA) Program. This book helps readers understand the nature of substance abuse among the elderly, as well as how to identify and intervene with older persons who have alcohol and drug problems, including persons who are reluctant to seek treatment.

Graham, Kathryn; Saunders, Sarah J; Flower, Margaret C; Timney, Carol B; White-Campbell, Marilyn; Zeidman, Anne

Contents
Preface

• The Need for Addictions Treatment for the Elderly
• The Development of the Community Older Persons Alcohol (COPA) Program
• A Typology of COPA Clients
• Evaluation Research at COPA: Goals, Methods, and Problems
• Literature Review of Factors Related to Drinking Problems Among Older Adults
• Problem Areas Identified Among COPA Clients
• Problems of Older Alcohol and Drug Abusers
• Measuring Client Outcomes
• Outcomes of Treatment at COPA
• Variables Associated With Improvement
• Conclusions
• Appendix A: Client Contact Record
• Appendix B: LESA Assessment Form
• References
• Index