Psychopharmacological treatment of ADHD in adults aged 50+: an empirical study

J Atten Disord. 2015 May;19(5):380-9. doi: 10.1177/1087054714527342. Epub 2014 Mar 29.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Attention / drug effects
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Impulsive Behavior / drug effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction
  • Psychotropic Drugs / therapeutic use*
  • Quality of Life
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Psychotropic Drugs