Older adults who use drugs: an examination of policy and preparedness in nursing facilities

Currently, over 5.7 million adults 65+ are projected to have a SUD, and the number of fatal overdose deaths among older adults is rising in both community and facility settings. This exploratory study involved surveys of 37 nursing facilities (NF) in Kentucky in order to identify current admission practices to screen, prevent, and/or address resident substance use. Respondents indicated that they were ill-equipped to address such problems and fail to offer specialized programs for residents or training for staff. Training and best practices for residents, their families, and staff should be established to address residents with substance use and SUD.