Experiences of Aging with Opioid Use Disorder and Comorbidity in Opioid Treatment Programs: A Qualitative Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The number of older adults entering opioid treatment programs (OTPs) to treat opioid use disorder (OUD) is increasing. However, the lived experiences of aging in OTPs have not been examined.

Objective

To explore the aging experience with OUD and barriers to medical care for older adults who receive care in OTPs.

Design

From November 2021 to July 2022, we conducted 1-to-1, semi-structured qualitative interviews in English and Spanish, audio-recorded, transcribed, systematically coded, and analyzed to identify key themes regarding the challenges of aging with OUD and managing chronic diseases.

Participants

Thirty-six adults aged ≥ 55 enrolled in OTPs in San Diego, California.

Approach

A descriptive qualitative approach was used. Major themes and

SUBMITTER: Han BH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11255154 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature