Subtotal $0.00
It can also happen due to cognitive decline, which is a normal part of aging, or disregard for warning labels. A study by Van Citters and Brockmann, published in the Journal of Dual Diagnoses, showed that early-onset abusers (where the abuse started before they turned 65) tend to have many more mental and physical problems that require treatment than their late-onset counterparts. These prevention strategies can significantly contribute to reducing the risk of substance misuse among older adults, ultimately fostering a healthier and more informed community. Social IndicatorsDescriptionLegal IssuesTrouble with the law related to substance use (e.g., DUI).Financial ProblemsSudden changes in financial status or unexplained expenses.Increased Need for SuppliesRequesting extra prescriptions substance abuse in older adults or showing signs of medication hoarding. Recovery Guide LLC does not endorse any treatment provider, and we do not guarantee the quality of care, outcomes, or results from any treatment program listed or advertised on our site. All information is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Training Programs
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 1 million adults aged 65 years or older reported a substance use disorder. The survey also reveals those older adults primarily misuse alcohol and prescription opioids. Naltrexone is the most well-studied medication used for SUD treatment among older adults,112 and it has demonstrated some effectiveness with this population.
Risk Factors for Substance Use Disorders Among Seniors
- Up to 15% of older healthcare patients may meet the criteria for at-risk drinking.
- Therapists or counselors may be met with challenges of stigma, denial, or even anger if older clients are not met with person-centered language and strategic intervention including thoughtful and discerning assessment.
- As a result, loved ones may miss the signs of substance use in their older adult loved ones, which may delay or prevent these older adults from receiving care.
One specific reason for the increase of addiction among older adults involves the physical and mental changes in aging adults that can often mask the signs of substance abuse that family members and medical professionals may overlook. Many causes can contribute to people turning to drug or alcohol misuse later in life, primarily health issues, mental health conditions like depression, and ongoing mourning of the loss of loved ones and friends. Recent research shows that substance use is rapidly increasing among older adults, including misuse of prescription drugs, illicit Sober living home drugs, and alcohol. As demographics change, cases of geriatric addictions are more frequently encountered in clinical practice.
Types of Drugs
As larger cohorts of adults continue to age, increasing concern regarding the unique healthcare needs of the geriatric population must be addressed. Substance use disorders (SUDs) among the geriatric population are one of the fastest growing public health concerns in the United States 1. Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can affect how a person perceives and responds to stimuli. Seniors with co-occurring psychiatric disorders may be more likely to try drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. It’s essential for family members and health care providers to be aware of this risk factor so they can https://k2joom.com/bop-residential-reentry-management-centers-3/ take steps to prevent it in their loved ones. One reason is older adults disapproval of and shame about use and misuse of substances and a reluctance to seek professional help for what many in this age group consider a private matter.