Elderly and Substance Use: Literature Review

Abstract

Introduction: The global population is currently aging at an accelerated rate, and estimates suggest that by 2050 there will be about two billion people over 60 years and older, making this population a major focus of health care. There has been an increase in drug use among this age group which represents a concern for this new generation of older adults. Objective: to identify and analyze, within the scientific literature, studies related to the consumption of psychoactive substances among older adults. Methodology: An exploratoryresearch bibliographic study was conducted through an integrative review of scientific articles published over the past ten years, considering publications in Portuguese, English and Spanish. Conclusion: The importance of specific public health policies and the creation of care strategies in the health care network aimed at this population is highlighted. In addition, it is essential that the academic community and health professionals engage more deeply with this increasingly prevalent issue.