A commentary on supporting older adults with trauma and substance use disorders

Purpose Past traumatic experiences are common among older adults with substance use disorders. Services supporting this population must be sensitive and equipped to address possible past trauma and associated post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) amongst service users. This commentary aims to explore past traumatic experiences and associated PTSD among older adults with substance use disorders. The focus is on defining trauma and PTSD, discussing their manifestation in older populations and examining the links between trauma and substance use disorders within the older age group. Design/methodology/approach We drew insights from authors’ lived experiences and experiences in practice within services supporting older people with substance use problems and trauma and findings from the CO-ACT study, exploring alcohol and mental health problems in older adults. This commentary is supplemented with findings and guidance from relevant research and key bodies involved with older substance users. Findings The analysis highlights the importance of services supporting older substance users to be sensitive to past trauma and equipped to address PTSD. The authors focus on the relevance of trauma-informed care and access to trauma-specific interventions in addressing PTSD within this demographic. We shed light on the specific challenges faced by care services in the United Kingdom, while emphasising that the recommendations presented are pertinent to other care systems. Originality/value This commentary responds to calls by people with lived experience aiming to inform research on substance use and mental health in older adults. By raising awareness of trauma amongst older substance users, the authors aim to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of their unique needs. This paper provides insights into the manifestation of trauma and PTSD in older populations and offers recommendations to enhance care services supporting this vulnerable demographic.