What Drug Is Most Commonly Abused by Older Adults and the Elderly?
Written by SolutionPoint Behavioral Health
At SolutionPoint, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of addiction treatment and rehab. One of our primary focuses is helping various age groups overcome the unique challenges linked to substance abuse. Today, we're shedding light on a topic that often remains under the radar: substance abuse in the elderly population.
The Silent Epidemic: Substance Abuse in the Golden Years
Substance abuse in the elderly doesn’t discriminate - it can occur in any income bracket, race, or gender among our seniors. Many individuals assume drug and alcohol issues are most prevalent among younger populations, but this overlooks a growing concern among our senior community. Many seniors, in their quest for relief from pain, anxiety, loneliness, or other age-related challenges, sometimes turn to substances that can potentially lead to addiction.
Most Commonly Abused Substance by Older Adults: Prescription Medications
Regarding seniors and substance abuse, the most commonly abused substances aren't illicit drugs—they’re prescription medications. These are medicines that were initially prescribed to manage health conditions, but over time, have led to dependency.
What drug is most commonly abused by older adults? Research shows that Benzodiazepines, often used to treat anxiety or insomnia, rank high on the list. Drugs like Valium, Ativan, and Xanax, when taken beyond their recommended doses or for extended periods, can also lead to addiction in older adults. Additionally, opioids prescribed for pain relief are another category with high dependency risks. Morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone are just a few examples of potentially addictive prescription drugs a senior might become dependent upon.
The Dangers of Alcohol Abuse in Seniors
It's important to note that alongside prescription medication misuse, alcohol also remains a significant concern. Many seniors may increase alcohol consumption as a coping mechanism for dealing with major life changes like retirement, loss of a loved one, or declining health. When combined with medications, even those taken correctly, alcohol can exacerbate side effects and increase the risk of accidents or other medical complications.
Substance Abuse Rates Among the Elderly
Understanding the gravity of substance abuse in seniors requires a deep dive into the numbers. In studies conducted up to 2022, it's estimated that about 17% of adults aged 60 and over suffer from one form of substance abuse or another. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and alcohol. What's even more concerning is that this number is projected to rise, given the increasing life expectancy and the baby boomer population entering the senior bracket. Many experts believe the actual figures may be higher, since substance abuse in this age group often remains underdiagnosed and overlooked. With an aging population, the importance of addressing and understanding the complexities of substance abuse in elderly individuals becomes paramount.
Why Are Seniors Vulnerable?
Several factors make older adults more susceptible to substance misuse:
Polypharmacy: As age advances, the number of prescriptions a person is on can increase, leading to potential interactions and increased chances of misuse.
Isolation: Loneliness can lead to increased substance use as a form of self-medication.
Undiagnosed Mental Health Issues: Conditions like depression can be overlooked in seniors, leading them to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.
Lack of Awareness: Many seniors might be unaware of the addictive potential of certain medications, leading to inadvertent misuse.
Signs of Substance Abuse in Seniors
If you're concerned about a loved one or having thoughts about what drug is most commonly abused by older adults, here are a few tell-tell signs to look for:
Changes in mood or behavior
Unexplained bruises or injuries
Memory problems beyond typical age-related forgetfulness
Neglecting personal hygiene or responsibilities
Secretive behavior, especially regarding medications
Frequent use of over-the-counter medications that can cause drowsiness or interact with alcohol
How to Find Help for Substance Abuse in Seniors
Navigating the maze of addiction can be daunting, especially when it involves our cherished senior population. The first step is recognizing the signs and understanding that seeking help is never too late. Consult with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance catered to the needs of older adults. Consider reaching out to specialized rehabilitation centers that cater to the elderly. SolutionPoint offers programs specifically designed for seniors, ensuring they receive both the care and dignity they deserve throughout their recovery journey.
A Hopeful Path Forward
The journey of life brings its set of challenges at every stage. As we shine a light on the vulnerabilities faced by our seniors, it becomes our collective responsibility to guide, support, and care for them. Recognizing that substance abuse isn't bound by age helps break stigmas and opens doors for effective communication. While the road to recovery might be daunting, with understanding and comprehensive care avenues like SolutionPoint, a brighter, healthier future is within reach for our cherished older adults.