The psychedelic 1960s, hippies in their 60s: substance abuse in the elderly.
The Consultant pharmacist : the journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists September 1, 2010 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.4140/tcp.n.2010.570 via PubMed
Summary
A case study of a 77-year-old man highlights the importance of assessing medication history, including substance abuse and dietary supplements, in elderly patients. The evaluation was prompted by the man's worsening cognition. The findings suggest that consultant pharmacists knowledgeable about substance abuse can provide better quality-of-life recommendations through appropriate dosage adjustments.
Study at a glance
| Design | case study |
|---|---|
| Population | a 77-year-old man referred for cognitive evaluation |
| Key finding | Consultant pharmacists with knowledge of substance abuse can improve quality-of-life recommendations for elderly patients by making appropriate dosage adjustments. |
Abstract
Individuals who attended the famous Woodstock concert--known collectively as hippies--were part of the "counterculture" of the late 1960s and well known for their use of illicit, sometimes psychedelic, drugs. Did they and other former hippies, who are now in their sixties and seventies, continue their substance abuse, and how are they presenting now? This case evaluates a 77-year-old man who was referred to the geriatric assessment clinic for evaluation of worsening cognition. This case illustrates the need to conduct a complete medication history, including substance abuse and dietary supplements, in elderly patients. Consultant pharmacists with knowledge of alcohol and substance abuse and the influence of this abuse on a patient's drug regimen can make improved quality-of-life recommendations for appropriate dosage adjustments as needed.