New Fed Focus on Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse,
Suicide Among Seniors
Nearly three in ten between the ages of 57 to 85 use
at least five prescription drugs
April 21, 2011 The prevention of suicide and the
misuse and abuse with prescription drugs by older Americans will be the
focus of a new effort by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration to expand a grant program targeting seniors. The SAMHSA
is asking for applications for the $3.56 million in grants.
These grants will expand Older Adults Targeted
Capacity Expansion (TCE) programs previously funded by SAMHSA to include
a focus on the prevention of suicide and prescription drug misuse and
abuse among this population.
The targeted population is adults aged 60 years and
older who are at risk for or experiencing behavioral health problems.
Approximately 80 percent of all seniors have at
least one chronic health condition, and 50 percent have at least two.
Nine out of every ten persons between the ages of 57 to 85 use
over-the-counter medication, dietary supplements and nearly three in ten
use at least five prescriptions. Medication misuse and abuse can cause a
range of harmful side effects increasing significant health care needs.
SAMHSAs mission is to reduce the impact of
substance abuse and mental illness on Americas communities. SAMHSA is
collaborating with the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) in this
initiative. This partnership will provide learning opportunities and
support planning for states and communities to reduce the impact of
substance abuse and mental illness across America.
SAMHSA is projected to provide approximately $3.56
million. This funding opportunity is a one-time 18 month award. Each of
the 10 selected grantees may receive $356,344 for up to 18 months.
Actual amounts may vary, depending on the availability of funds.
WHO CAN APPLY: Eligibility is restricted to current
and previous Older Adult Targeted Capacity Expansion (TCE) grantees from
cohorts FY2002-2008.
HOW TO APPLY: Applications for SM-11-009 are
available by calling SAMHSA at 1-877-SAMHSA7 [TDD: 1-800-487-4889] or by
downloading the application at
http://www.samhsa.gov/grants/2011/sm_11_009.aspx.
APPLICATION DUE DATE: June 7, 2011. Applications
must be received by the due date to be considered for review.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For questions about program
issues contact Marian Scheinholtz at (240) 276-1911 or email
Marian.Scheinholtz@samhsa.hhs.gov.
For information on grants management and budget
issues contact Gwendolyn Simpson at (240) 276-1408 or email
gwendolyn.simpson@samhsa.hhs.gov.
SAMHSA is a public health agency within the
Department of Health and Human Services. Its mission is to reduce the
impact of substance abuse and mental illness on Americas communities.
http://www.samhsa.gov
Keep up with the latest news for senior citizens, baby
boomers
April 21, 2011 The prevention of suicide and the
misuse and abuse with prescription drugs by older Americans will be the
focus of a new effort by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration to expand a grant program targeting seniors. The SAMHSA
is asking for applications for the $3.56 million in grants. 