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Factors Associated With Illegal Drug Use Among Older Methadone Clients

Correspondence: Address correspondence to Daniel Rosen, School of Social Work, University of Pittsburgh, 2117 Cathedral of Learning, Pittsburgh, PA, 15260. E-mail: dar15{at}pitt.edu

Purpose. The overall aims of this study are to describe the life stressors of, exposure to illegal drug use of, and illegal drug use by older methadone clients. 

Design and Methods. The current study focuses on a subsample of the larger administrative data of a methadone clinic that is limited to African American and White clients over the age of 50 (N = 143). A logistic regression model tested the relationship between life stressors, exposure to illegal drug use, and a respondent's ability to remain abstinent from illegal drug use in the previous month. 

Results. Older methadone clients exposed to illegal drug use in their social networks and neighborhoods were significantly more likely to use illegal drugs in the last month. 

Implications. Although demographic trends in the methadone population indicate that this cohort is aging and that their numbers are growing, little research exists on their well-being and service needs.

Key Words: Substance abuse • Opiate addiction • Geriatric services