Older adult patient-doctor communication regarding alcohol use: a qualitative study
Date
2011
Authors
Sharp, Lindsay C., author
Vacha-Haase, Tammi, advisor
Bloom, Larry, committee member
Swaim, Randy, committee member
Banning, Jim, committee member
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Abstract
Problematic drinking is a significant issue within the older adult (65+) population. Although proper assessment and diagnosis is crucial in addressing problem drinking in this population, research suggests that physicians are not adequately discussing alcohol use with their older adult patients. In the midst of the accumulated knowledge on older adult patient-doctor communication, a sizeable gap exists regarding communication older adults report to their primary care physician regarding alcohol use. Using qualitative methods, the purpose of the present study was to understand the communication between community-based older adults and their physicians regarding their alcohol use. Results revealed several older adult biases that prevent them from initiating alcohol communication with their physician, including perceived lack of problem with alcohol, physician disinterest in the topic, completing the information on the initial intake form, and past experience with alcohol. However, participants stated that they would feel comfortable discussing the topic if initiated by their physician, and identified several physician characteristics that would improve the patient-doctor relationship, including humor, length of time with physician, perceived adequate time, perceived knowledge, and similarly aged.
Description
Rights Access
Subject
alcohol
patient-doctor communication
older adults