Substance Use Disorder in Older Adults

This presentation is an introduction to the biological, social, and psychological factors which may be present for older adults who have problematic use of substances. As we age our bodies begin to process substances, including alcohol, prescription drugs and illicit substances, differently. It is useful to understand the role of biology in substance use disorders, particularly as it relates to older adults. Older adults are more likely to have access to prescription opioids, and it is important to understand the role of Naloxone in keeping individuals safe from harm. Please join us to learn more on this topic and how to create a more supportive community for older adults.

Intended audience: This presentation is intended for individuals working with older adults. The materials are useful in understanding how best to support older adults who are at risk or experiencing a substance use disorder.

Presenter:

Laurel Wonder, MSW, Older Adult Behavioral Health Specialist, Multnomah County

Laurel Wonder holds a Masters Degree in Social Welfare from University of California, Berkeley. She began her career supporting persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, who were also impacted by severe mental illness. From this work grew a desire to safeguard the rights of vulnerable persons. Ms. Wonder transitioned to working in Adult Protective Services in Washington and Oregon.

After nearly two decades working for individual clients, Ms. Wonder is pleased to be supporting system improvement through the Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative. She has a passion for improving program policies to better address the needs of older adults and persons with physical disabilities, as well as providing training to the community. Ms. Wonder has a MSW degree and holds a QMHP in the state of Oregon. Ms. Wonder is a certified facilitator for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) and several other trainings.

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• OGA members: Free!
• Non-members: $10
• Non-member students/seniors and registrants with limited financial means: $5

Why do we ask for a fee?

OGA is a non-profit organization run by volunteers. Events and donations are our main sources of income to fund our educational and networking programs.

Reduced or complementary event registration is one of the great benefits for OGA members! If you like our educational program - we strive to offer at least one event per month - becoming a member will pay off quickly! To learn more about OGA membership, please visit our Membership page.

However, we understand that many of us are struggling to make ends meet these days. No one will be turned away! If you cannot afford $5 at this moment, please contact us at [email protected] - thanks to the generous donations of OGA members and friends throughout the year, we can cover a small number of registrations for each event.

Please note that we offer CEUs only for our annual conference in October, not for our regular events. However, we are happy to issue a Certificate of Attendance upon request for those who attend this webinar for its entire length. To request one, please send us an email after the event.

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