Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the support provided to older people living alone who have alcohol-related problems by nurses working at Community general support centers and the difficulties that nurses face in this process. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among nurses working at Community general support centers using an open-ended, self-administered questionnaire. Responses from 209 nurses were collected and content analysis was performed. Ten categories of support were generated, including “Strategies to reduce alcohol consumption,” and 11 categories of difficulties in support, including “Refusal to accept treatment and support”. The results showed that older people living alone had alcohol-related problems, such as interruption of the use of care services due to alcohol consumption, and that these problems are more likely to become latent due to the fact that they live alone. In conclusion, a harm reduction approach and support during isolation are considered to be crucial for such older people living alone. Alternatively, it is necessary to establish a system that facilitates cooperation among supporters of the older with mental illnesses and specialized institutions for alcohol-related problems.
