Introduction: Brazil has reached the third stage of the demographic transition, in which there is a reduction in fertility, birth and death rates and, consequently, there is an increase in the elderly population in the country. With the increase in life expectancy, we have an increase in the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases that, together with the existing changes in the aging process, make this population more vulnerable to the use of chemical substances. Objective: To highlight the "invisible epidemic" of chemical dependency among the elderly, its causes and consequences, and draw attention to the need for public policies aimed at this age group. Methods: A total of 52 articles published in the PubMed, Scielo, and Google academic databases between 2003 and 2022 were selected. Discussion: Legal drugs such as alcohol and cigarettes are widespread in our society and are often not considered substances of abuse by individuals who use them, nor by health professionals. Along with these, illicit drugs and drug abuse bring many physical, biological and psychological damages to the health of the elderly population. This population suffers a lot of social prejudice, which makes it difficult to seek treatment. In addition, the lack of public policies aimed at this public interfere with the diagnosis and management of these patients.
Conclusion:The group of chemically dependent elderly people is currently an invisible epidemic that is growing more and more in Brazil and requires training of health professionals. In addition to greater attention on the part of public managers, the present study demonstrates the importance and need for further research to address these individuals.
INTRODUCTION: Abusive use of licit and illicit drugs is a public health problem and has been increasing significantly worldwide. The consumption of these substances, as well as the protective and risk factors for dependence, varies according to the age group. OBJECTIVE: To analyze risk and protective factors related to drug use among young people, adults and the elderly in the context of psychosocial health promotion, prevention and rehabilitation. METHODS: This is an integrative review. To formulate the research question, the PICO strategy was used. The following databases were found: 55 SciELO, 370 PubMed, 53 LILACS and 27 Cochrane Library. After analyzing the 113 previously selected articles, 90 were excluded. 23 articles were selected to compose the current sample. The criteria recommended by the PRISMA group were used as a search strategy for selection and exclusion. RESULTS: Among young people, the main protective factors found were healthy family relationships and academic commitment. And among the risk factors is family and school distance. In relation to adults, the main risk factors are mental disorders and troubled family and marital relationships. As protective factors, the religious bond stands out. In the elderly, social isolation due to loss of occupational activities and social distancing stands out as a risk factor. As a protective factor, there is the affective bond with family members. CONCLUSION: The age group and the social context determine the behavior of society and translate the main risk and protection factors for chemical dependence. This subject is still neglected by the scientific community, especially among young and old. It is necessary to carry out more studies on the subject, and to create more effective public policies.
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