Falling Down: Problematic Substance Use in Later Life (FutureLearn)

Falling Down: Problematic Substance Use in Later Life (FutureLearn)

Learn more about the issues faced by older people in relation to problematic substance use. Older people face specific issues in relation to problematic substance use. Demography and a growing ageing population make understanding these ever more important. But older people’s problems tend to be more invisible, both in care services and in substance use services. This online course brings these issues together from a health, social care, informal carer and public health point of view.

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It draws on international perspectives from experts in the UK, New Zealand, Australia and the USA, to compare and share knowledge, skills and best practice with the community.

What topics will you cover?

  • Introduction to the issues concerning problematic substance use for older people, context, causes, recognition.
  • Comparison and sharing of knowledge, skills and expertise across different disciplines as well as internationally.
  • Identifying interventions and best practices to tackle the issues and promote health and wellbeing in ageing populations.
  • Developing a community of practice and networking on the issues.

What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

  • Describe the problems and issues that older people face in relation to problematic substance use including alcohol, drugs, polypharmacy and the specific risks and circumstances associated with ageing and health in later life.
  • Identify the key professionals and the sources of support needed by older people impacted by problematic substance use.
  • Reflect on expertise and experiences shared to identify own strengths, areas of knowledge and skills needed to support older people and their families.
  • Explore best practice and future developments for addressing these issues within a public health and community context.
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