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Prevent and eliminate the problems caused by alcohol and drug misuse.

Percent of Adults Age 65 and Older Who Drink at a Level of Risk-Northwest Region

Current Value

16.3%

2020

Definition

Line Bar Comparison

Story Behind the Curve

Franklin and Grand Isle County have increased since 2015.

One fifth of Vermonters age 65 and older drink at a risky level. Alcohol is the most commonly abused psychoactive substance among all age groups including older adults. Adults 65+ may have unique risks associated with alcohol use due to physiological changes during the aging process, including chronic diseases and increased medication use. This population may be particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of alcohol as it may impact the course of chronic disease or increase risks of injury at lower doses than younger adults. Health providers should ensure that screening for unhealthy alcohol use is part of the regular medical care for this population.1

You can find more information and data in the Healthy Vermonters 2020 Data Explorer here

Partners

Vermont Department of Health

Local senior housing

Local community coalitions

Law Enforcement

Why Is This Important?

Excessive alcohol consumption is the third leading preventable cause of death nationwide and the most prevalent form of substance misuse in the region. 

What Works

  • Education and prevention services to increase awareness of the prevalence and risk for harm of alcohol misuse among older adults, especially those taking medications that are reactive to alcohol.1
  • Early identification of problem substance use through evidence-based screening instruments.1
  • Vermont SBIRT program for medical providers to screen and provide education to their patients about potential problems with mixing prescription medications with alcohol.1
  • Region-specific prevention practices can also be found in "Planning for Prevention-A Guide to Community Health Initiatives" through Northwest Regional Planning Commission. 

References

1. Vermont Department of Health 

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