As the population ages, risk factors commonly shared by chronic degenerative disease can be exacerbated by behaviours and lifestyle choices. There is increasing evidence that those affected by chronic disease (and associated symptoms such as pain), depression and adverse behavioural and lifestyle patterns are at risk of substance misuse. This paper overviews substance use in Baby Boomers, which are defined as people aged between 52–70 years old, and the implications this may have on their mental health and well-being. We provide an overview of the characteristics of the Baby Boomer generation, their health status and what is currently known about their substance use and misuse. A strengthening of older adult mental health outpatient services is recommended to prevent and address substance use among older adults. Further research examining factors that influence substance use among this group could better inform health promotion programs targeting Baby Boomers.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	mental health, baby boomers, substance abuse
Research Division:	Medical and Health Sciences
Research Group:	Nursing
Research Field:	Aged Care Nursing
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Health and Support Services
Objective Field:	Nursing
UTAS Author:	Cleary, M (Professor Michelle Cleary)
UTAS Author:	Sayers, J (Dr Jan Sayers)
UTAS Author:	Bramble, M (Dr Marguerite Bramble)
ID Code:	113125
Year Published:	2017 (online first 2016)
Web of Science® Times Cited:	3
Deposited By:	Health Sciences
Deposited On:	2016-12-14
Last Modified:	2017-12-14
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