An evaluation of a Geriatric Substance Abuse Recovery Program in post-acute care of a skilled nursing facility

Alcohol and substance misuse is an overlooked and under-acknowledged problem among older adults. Hence, a substantial number of older adults go without needed recovery treatment. To meet the need of identifying and addressing alcohol and substance misuse issues in older adults, we created a Geriatric Substance Abuse Recovery Program (GSARP) for post-acute care patients within a skilled nursing facility (SNF). The GSARP integrates medical rehabilitation and substance abuse recovery services. This paper provides a description of the GSARP and reports on the results of the evaluation. Findings showed high program acceptability as demonstrated by an 80% program participation rate of patients who based on screenings for alcohol and substance misuse issues were found eligible to receive recovery services. Minority older adults were significantly less likely to participate when compared to Caucasians. GSARP participants were significantly more likely to return home when compared to those who did not participate and they had lower 30-day-rehospitalization rates. At two follow-up points, at least 60% of program participants reported that they had not relapsed. This pilot demonstrated feasibility of implementing a recovery program within an SNF and produced preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of the program in improving patient outcomes.