Informing the work of the University of the 3rd Age (U3A)

June 2019
NCETA

NCETA’s Professor Ann Roche was recently invited by the Flinders University of the 3rd Age (U3A) to present the Centre’s research findings on AOD use among older people and its implications to a cohort of 40 retired professionals.

Professor Roche’s presentation was very positively received. Participants welcomed the comprehensive and up-to-date information on the changing patterns and prevalence of AOD use among older people and expressed an interest in being involved in future research.

Specifically, her presentation highlighted that:

  • The proportion of risky drinkers among people aged 60-69 years is increasing
  • Cannabis use among older people was also increasing, particularly among males
  • The number of older people with substance use problems was expected to double by 2020
  • 15% of aged care clients have drug-related morbidities
  • While older people do well in treatment, barriers to accessing AOD treatment services included:
    • Shame, embarrassment (feelings of past ‘failures’)
    • Physical access to services (transport, stairs etc.)
    • Attributing AOD-related symptoms to ageing
    • Not knowing where to turn to for help
    • There is an imperative to better address the needs of older people using AOD in order to improve their quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.

The interaction and feedback from the group will help inform future NCETA research in this area and provide opportunities for co-designed programs and initiatives.