Personal Factors and Substance Use in Older Adults

Drug use has become a public health problem that especially affects the adolescent and young adult population. However, it is important to establish that drug use in older adults has been virtually ignored worldwide. The objective of this study was to determine personal factors and the use of illicit psychoactive substances in older adults in Juarez. The use of illicit psychoactive substances is considered less frequent in older adults than in young people, the problem exists and is increasing because they have a history of early and late initiation, and some stressful life event may lead to substance use. The results obtained demonstrate the need for further research focused on drug use among older adults, and to develop strategies to reduce the alterations and complications they may be experiencing.