ealth and substance abuse treatment needs of older prisoners” (733). This population is also expected to rise dramatically over the next few decades.
The elderly often have a host of issues that make them more at risk for substance abuse problems. Van Wormer (2003) calls for a new term to label such issues in light of accidental addiction to prescription drugs or accidental mixing of drugs and over-dosing. She argues for the term “misuse” to fit in better with the needs of this unique population (Van Wormer 2003, 146). Benshoff (et al. 2003) also argues that the elderly face special challenges from aging that make them mor
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