Older Adults’ and Case Managers’ Perceptions of Smoking and Smoking Cessation

Abstract

Objectives: This study explores older smokers’ and case managers’ perceptions of smoking and smoking cessation. Methods: Data were collected from 48 case managers via focus group sessions and questionnaires and from 20 smoking clients via structured interviews. Results: Case managers identified barriers to addressing clients’ smoking at the client, staff, and organizational levels. Clients and case managers lacked information on the benefits of smoking cessation in older adults. The majority of clients interviewed had no plans to quit smoking. Discussion: Results suggest that smoking cessation programs for this population need to be geared to clients who are not ready to quit. Education about the benefits of quitting smoking in older adults is needed for both case managers and smokers.