Abstract

Residents of Veterans Affairs nursing homes have high rates of substance use problems. To evaluate relevant treatment resources and practices available to them, we surveyed 48 nursing home units with high substance use disorder prevalence. We summarize survey findings and describe areas of strength and weakness in addressing the needs of residents with substance use disorders. Social workers can make important contributions in key areas identified in the survey, including fostering improved communication and coordination with medical center programs, educating care staff regarding substance use in older persons, and providing discharge planning that takes into account residents' substance use history.

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