Screening for alcohol use and misuse in older adults: using the Short Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test--Geriatric Version

Am J Nurs. 2008 Nov;108(11):50-8; quiz 58-9. doi: 10.1097/01.NAJ.0000339100.32362.d9.

Abstract

The Short Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test--Geriatric Version (SMAST-G) is often used in outpatient settings to detect "at-risk" alcohol use, alcohol abuse, or alcoholism in older adults. As the number of older adults in the United States grows, those who develop problems of abuse and a dependence on alcohol will grow as well. The availability of accurate, easy-to-use screening tools to detect people in need of counseling can increase the number of older adults whose lives can be improved and even lengthened. To watch a free online video of a nurse administering the SMAST-G, go to http://links.lww.com/A271.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alcoholism / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment / methods*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Michigan
  • Surveys and Questionnaires