psychiatry geriatrics

Short Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test — Geriatric Version (SMAST-G)

10-item version of the SMAST adapted for older adults (≥65 years). Addresses age-specific alcohol use issues (drinking to cope, loneliness, pain). Score ≥2 = probable alcohol use problem.

Score interpretation

Screen Negative 0–1

SMAST-G 0–1 — alcohol problem unlikely

→ Reassurance; safe drinking limits in older adults = ≤1 unit/day, ≤7 units/week (lower than general population due to drug interactions, falls, cognitive effects); brief advice if any use detected

Probable Alcohol Problem 2–10

SMAST-G ≥2 — probable alcohol use problem in older adult

→ AUDIT-C for quantification; assess falls, cognitive impairment, medication interactions (benzodiazepines, opioids, anticoagulants); refer to older adult addiction service or geriatric psychiatry; brief motivational intervention; liver function, FBC, B12, thiamine; treat alcohol withdrawal cautiously (lower benzodiazepine doses — lorazepam preferred in elderly)

Interpretation bands for the SMAST-G. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Blow FC et al. The Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test — Geriatric Version (MAST-G): A new elderly-specific screening instrument. Alcohol Clin Exp Res. 1992;16(2):372.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Short Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (SMAST) · Alcohol Use

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.

Score interpretation

References

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