Objective: To study pharmacotherapy in adults aged 50+ with ADHD.
Method: A survey was administered to adults with ADHD (≥ 50 years old). Participants on medication for ADHD were compared with those not on medications.
Results: Mean age of participants was 55.8 years, and mean age when diagnosed with ADHD was 50.3 years. Ninety-five participants (63.8%) reported current psychopharmacological treatment for ADHD, 36 (24.2%) had stopped psychopharmacological treatment, and 18 (12.0%) were psychopharmacological treatment naive for ADHD. Those currently being treated psychopharmacologically for ADHD reported significantly improved attention relative to the two nonmedicated groups (p < .01). Among examined sample characteristics (including current psychopharmacological treatment for ADHD), employment was associated with a better outcome (odds ratio = 3.3, p = .006).
Conclusion: The majority of adults aged 50+ with ADHD reported regular pharmacotherapy for ADHD. Participants currently receiving psychopharmacological treatment for ADHD reported better attention than those not receiving pharmacotherapy. Employment was associated with more favorable outcomes.
Keywords: ADHD; ASRS screener; Satisfaction With Life Scale; adults aged 50+; pharmacotherapy; stimulant medication.
© 2014 SAGE Publications.