Knowledge Gaps Regarding Naloxone Use Among Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Azhar Gohar, Naomi Armstrong, Lauren Camp, Karen Coker, Patricia E Savary, Shakshi Sharma, Regina Gibson, Jeanne Y Wei
Primary Institution: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Hypothesis
Older adults have significant knowledge gaps regarding opioid use and naloxone.
Conclusion
Older adults have a lack of awareness about opioid overdose risks and naloxone use, highlighting the need for better education.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults underestimated their risk for opioid overdose compared to younger adults.
- Many older adults believed that only heroin or fentanyl users were likely to overdose.
- Recognition of naloxone as an overdose antidote was lower among older adults.
- Older adults were less aware of the need for a second dose of naloxone if the first dose failed.
- Most older adults did not know that naloxone could be obtained from pharmacies without a prescription.
Takeaway
Many older people don't know enough about the dangers of opioids and how to use naloxone, which can help save lives.
Methodology
Survey of community dwelling older adults about opioid risks and naloxone use.
Limitations
The study may not represent all older adults in the region.
Participant Demographics
Participants were 77% female and 52% black or African American, aged 50 and above.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P=0.020, P=0.029, P=0.016, P=0.033, P=0.018
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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