Older Adults and Substance Use Disorder

Misuse can exacerbate existing conditions, making it essential to consider combined treatment approaches. For more on this topic, visit our article on the importance of addressing underlying mental health issues. Roughly 65% of those aged 60 and older reported engaging in high-risk drinking marijuana addiction practices, which are defined as exceeding daily guidelines at least weekly in the past year 1.

Faith-Based Addiction Treatment

Faith may prove especially important for older adults in addiction treatment, as the majority of older U.S. adults are religious. Because so little research has been done on addiction therapy in older adults, a personalized approach proves especially important with this population. The right type of care depends on the person, their needs, and the substances they have used. Older adults, who may be more sensitive to substances, may experience prolonged or intensified consequences than others. However, the available research does point to some specific risks and consequences. It is important to note, though, that some prescription opioid drugs, particularly prescription fentanyl, are stronger than heroin.

How Willows Healthcare Provides Comfort and Support for Hospice Patients

• Elders are able to utilize offered treatments and benefit from the positive effects of brief interventions, education, counseling and inpatient treatment.
• Substance misuse can lead to memory lapses, reduced problem-solving abilities, and overall cognitive decline.
• Alcohol can also interact with other drugs that older adults may take for medical reasons, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and anticoagulants, increasing the risk of overdose and death.

Almost 20% of men and just over 6% of women in this age group are binge drinkers. A plain language summary of prescription opioids that explains effects on the brain and reported use. When you call the number listed on this ad, your call will be answered by Treatment X, a licensed addiction treatment provider and paid advertiser on AddictionResource.net.

• Seniors are frequently unaware of the risks they are taking by misusing or abusing psychotropic substances.
• Inpatient treatment is an option for older adults who need around-the-clock care and support while they undergo detoxification and treatment for their substance abuse problems.
• The most common health problems contributing to late-onset alcoholism are depression, major surgeries, and memory loss.

Help from the 988 Lifeline

These groups foster relational connections, where individuals share their struggles and successes, thereby reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness that can accompany addiction. Barriers preventing older adults from accessing addiction treatment are multifaceted. Many necessary non-hospital-based residential treatments and crucial outpatient services are not covered by Medicare, leaving seniors with only a fraction of the options available to them. The involvement of family and social connections enhances recovery support, while integrating wellness programs addresses mental and emotional well-being. Personalized aftercare plans are vital to maintain engagement in healthy activities and behaviors post-treatment. Additionally, tailored treatments focus on the specific life experiences of older adults, fostering a supportive and understanding therapeutic environment.

A Guide to Substance Abuse in Older Adults: Risks, Warning Signs, and Treatments

Rehab centers may implement specific programs for older adults as well, which can foster a sense of belonging. If rehab programs lack appropriate accommodations, they may prevent older adults with disabilities from receiving treatment. Therefore, some older adults may struggle to relate to the rest of the group, which may increase feelings substance abuse in older adults of isolation rather than alleviate them.

Medicare Coverage of Opioid Treatment Programs: Consumer Facts

Family dynamics play a vital role in the recovery process for older adults dealing with substance use disorders. Supportive family members can help identify addiction issues, facilitate interventions, and encourage treatment participation. Engaging family in therapy often enhances the recovery experience by providing emotional support and understanding as seniors reintegrate into their daily lives. Many behavioral therapies and medications have been successful in treating substance use disorders in older adults. Little is known about the best models of care, but research shows that older patients have better results with longer durations of care.