Older people with drug problems in Scotland: Addressing the needs of an ageing population

The challenges of responding to needs of older people with a drug problem (OPDP), defined in this report as over the age of 35, are significant and will increase considerably over the coming years. Among people with drug problems, those aged over 35 will become the main client group in specialist services for the foreseeable future. They will also be a significant challenge to a wider range of services that will increasingly be required to offer help and support. Therefore, in terms of planning for the future, OPDPs complex and long-term care needs must be taken into consideration in the planning and development of all health, social care and related services.

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