Psychoactive drug abuse in older adults

Psychoactive medications with abuse potential are used by at least 1 in 4 older adults, and such use is likely to grow as the population ages. The treatment of disorders of prescription drug use in older adults may involve family and caretakers, and should take into account the unique physical, emotional, and cognitive factors of aging. Further research is needed on the epidemiologic, health services, and treatment aspects of drug abuse in older adults, as well as the development of appropriate screening and diagnostic tools.