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Late-life depression and alcoholism

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Abstract

The relationship between alcohol use and later-life depression is complex. At-risk and problem drinking elevates the risk of depressive symptoms. The co-occurrence of alcohol use disorders and depression increases the potential for poor mental and physical health outcomes in older adults. Many older adults who are experiencing problems related to alcohol use do not meet alcohol abuse/dependence criteria. Depressive symptoms among older adults often are overlooked or misdiagnosed. The role of at-risk and problem alcohol use in depressive symptoms and vice versa may be underestimated. After a review of the literature, clinical recommendations for addressing late-life alcohol misuse and depression are presented.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry, 4250 Plymouth Road, Campus Box 5765, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-2700, USA

    Frederic C. Blow PhD

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  1. Frederic C. Blow PhD
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  2. Alisha M. Serras MSW
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  3. Kristen Lawton Barry PhD
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Correspondence to Frederic C. Blow PhD.

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Blow, F.C., Serras, A.M. & Barry, K.L. Late-life depression and alcoholism. Curr Psychiatry Rep 9, 14–19 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-007-0004-z

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