Assessment of alcohol use disorder in the elderlya
| Previous diagnosis of alcohol-use disorder |
| Drinking patterns, physiologic dependence, withdrawals |
| Presence of intoxication |
| Neuropsychiatric comorbidities or manifestations including suicidal ideation |
| Medical comorbidities and complications including chronic pain; current medications |
| Psychosocial evaluation including housing, dietary issues, finances, legal issues, sociability, family |
| Prior treatment, including pharmacotherapy: success, failure, relapse, participation in support groups |
| Patient’s level of motivation to change |
↵a Assessment should include screening, a thorough medical and psychosocial history, physical examination, and appropriate laboratory tests.