Please Review the Two Lemke and Moos (2003a, 2003b) Studies

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The Answer is Two studies demonstrate that the 12 steps seem applicable and effective with older adults. In these two studies, older individuals (ages 55 years or older) with SUDs were matched with younger (ages 21-39 years) and middle-aged (ages 40-59 years) individuals with SUDs on the basis of demographic factors and co-occurring psychiatric disorder status. These three groups all attended a similar number of 12-step meetings during and in two years following residential treatment. All had a sponsor. Those who attended more 12-step meetings and those who had a sponsor in the first year experienced better one-year alcohol and psychiatric outcomes. Furthermore, those who attended more meetings and had a sponsor in the second year reported less alcohol consumption at the five-year follow-up. Of importance here is that the three age groups did not differ regarding the relationship between 12-step engagement and SUD and psychiatric symptom outcomes (Lemke & Moos, 2003a, 2003b). Consequently, it seems that, at least in these two studies, older adults can obtain just as much benefit from the 12-step experience as younger adults.

Please Review the Two Lemke and Moos (2003a, 2003b) Studies

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