Ageing and Substance Abuse – A Critical Combination

The heightened life expectancy in Sweden along with older peoples increased alcohol consumption means that the group of elderly with alcohol abuse problems is growing. The responsibility of this specific group is a shared responsibility between the Swedish healthcare system and social services. This paper will focus on the intersection of social services; as the concerned group is a matter both for the elderly care unit, as well as the substance abuse unit. The purpose of this study is to examine what the scientific literature gathers on the subject, in order to distinguish whether the construction of the elderly affects social work and the selection of social services. The method used for this study is a literature review with a qualitative approach. The results were coded and are presented in a thematized manner. The results of this study show a need for services tailored to the concerned group. The study finds that there is a divided view on the mission of the elder care unit and the need for more detailed guidelines in the daily work with elderly with substance abuse problems. The substance abuse unit seems to be working less actively with the older population and collaboration between the two social service units is found to be flawed. Institutions are found not to be adapted to the needs of an older person with substance abuse problems. The results are analyzed in the discussion through the lens of the life course perspective in combination with ageism theory. Through the theories it is argued that the homogenization of the elderly group affects which services are made available and how the quality of existing services is affected by current age norms. Lastly the topic of self-determination and motivation is discussed, specifically in relation to hybrid homes directed at elderly with long term substance abuse problems.