Mental health, physical health problems, and drinking among Latino older adults

A paucity of research addresses the mental health needs of diverse groups of older adults. In particular, substance use among older adult Latinos represents an important but understudied area. The aim of this study was to test demographic, mental health, and physical health problems as predictors of alcohol use among Latino older adults. Secondary data analysis of the National Epidemiological Study of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC; Grant & Dawson, 2006) was conducted to test proportion of life lived in the United States, mental health diagnosis, and physical health problems as predictors of alcohol use, binge drinking, and a lifetime alcohol use disorder. Participants self-identified as Hispanic or Latino and were aged 50 or older. Results found that males and those who had lived more of their lives in the United States had greater odds of recent alcohol use, binge drinking, and lifetime alcohol use disorder. Lifetime depression was associated with greater odds of all 3 alcohol use outcomes while lifetime anxiety disorder was associated with greater odds of binge drinking and lifetime alcohol use disorder. Health problems in the past year decreased the odds of past-year drinking and binge drinking. Implications for future research include testing potential mediators of the link between health problems and alcohol use. For example, perceptions that alcohol use may interfere with treatment and recovery might keep older adults with health problems from using alcohol. Overall, the results from this study underscore the importance of assessment of alcohol use and associated risks among diverse populations of older adults. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract).