Late-life benzodiazepine use among Russian-speaking immigrants in Israel.
OBJECTIVE
In this prospective study, we examine the reasons for benzodiazepine use among Russian-speaking elderly people in Israel, and we discuss issues related to immigrants. We provide information that can be applied to the improvement of age-related health and social services.


METHODS
During a 6-month period, we interviewed late-life Russian-speaking immigrants in Israeli independent living facilities to determine benzodiazepine use among such individuals.


RESULTS
Among individuals interviewed, 69% reported use; 45% of those who used the substance did so daily. Respondents aged 80 and older were more likely than those aged younger than 80 to use benzodiazepines. More men (78%) than women (67%) reported use, but we found no significant difference in a comparison of gender status and pattern of drug use.


CONCLUSIONS
Although other studies of drug use show that patterns of use differ significantly among older men and women, this research indicates that gender status does not appear to influence the pattern of, and reasons for, benzodiazepine use. Additional studies are needed in order for researchers to further understand the nature and extent of benzodiazepine use. Such information should be applied to the development of policies and services that will address the quality-of-life needs of individuals who use or misuse this drug and others like it.
Isralowitz
Richard
R
Department of Social Work, Ben Gurion University, Beer Sheva, Israel 84105. Richard@bgu.ac.il
Reznik
Alex
A
Borkin
Sofia
S
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001569:Benzodiazepines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007557:Israel / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012426:Russia / Q000208:ethnology; D007319:Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012917:Social Adjustment; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000188:drug therapy*
D001569:Benzodiazepines