Substance Use Disorders in Older Adults with Dr. Eileen Fingerman (2 hours)

Substance abuse in older adults is a complex and often silent epidemic. It is underestimated, under identified, under diagnosed and under treated. Multiple chronic illnesses, polypharmacy and physiological effects of aging, can all lead to misuse. Substance abuse and misuse among older people is often overlooked, mistaking the symptoms for those of dementia, depression, or other problems common to older adults. Join Dr. Fingerman as she discusses the effects of these medications on the aging brain and body and the differences between symptoms of addiction compared to symptoms of aging and cognitive decline. 

Levels: All Levels

Tracks: Elderly/Disabled Population

HUD Category: Drug & Alcohol Use/Abuse by Elders (Required New Hire))

Presenter: Dr. Elieen Fingerman

Presenter Bio: Dr. Fingerman is a family physician and geriatrician who has been caring for patients in central Maine for nearly 30 years. In addition to her passion for helping older adults age in place, she has a particular interest in addiction medicine and has been the director of Suboxone clinics in central Maine. She is also board certified in integrative and holistic medicine and has a particular interest in herbal medicine, and the role of diet in health and disease. She lives in Sidney on a 40-acre organic farm with husband Tom.

Objectives

1. Identify some of the barriers to identifying addiction in older adults.
2. Discuss the difference between “early onset” and “late onset” addiction.
3. Compare the difference between symptoms of addiction and symptoms of aging and cognitive decline.