The BRENDA model: A psychosocial addiction model to identity and treat alcohol disorders in elders

Studies have shown that up to 10% of the elderly drink daily and as much as 4% have alcoholism. Although many elders visit a primary care provider, th e problem frequently is overlooked or misdiagnosed. We have found that prim ary care-based nursing is an effective treatment for older adults with alco holism. In this article, we introduce the BRENDA model and show its effecti veness in retaining older adults in treatment. BRENDA involves biopsychosoc ial assessment, reporting the assessment to the patient, an empathetic appr oach. identified and stated patient needs, direct advice to stop or decreas e alcohol consumption, and assessment of the compliance with or outcome of the direct advice. We also describe the utility of the BRENDA model for the pharmacotherapeutic treatment of addiction in tate life.