Substance use disorders do not discriminate when it comes to age. Even seniors can become addicted to alcohol and drugs. Unfortunately, the signs of substance abuse in the elderly are often missed. In some cases, the substance use has been going on for quite a long time. In addition, many seniors are on a variety of addictive prescription medications. As such, prescription drug addiction is also a serious concern in the elderly.
In order to address substance abuse in the elderly, Phoenix Rising Recovery offers comprehensive and tailored senior addiction treatment. Seniors require special care and treatment based on their unique needs and the extent of addiction. We provide patient-centric care to help seniors overcome addiction while still managing their other healthcare and mental health concerns.
Understanding Substance Abuse in the Elderly
According to the NIDA, 65% of seniors report alcohol use, which is the most abused substance among those age 65 and older. Data on seniors aged 65 and older from the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found:
- 1.6% have alcohol use disorder
- 10.7% binge drink
- 2.5% are heavy alcohol users
- 1.3% misuse opioids
- 0.5% misuse tranquilizers
- 0.4% misuse benzodiazepines
- 0.2% misuse sedatives
- 4.2% misuse marijuana
Factors Contributing to Substance Abuse in Seniors
There can be a variety of factors contributing to substance abuse in the elderly. They could be related to health issues and medication conditions. They could also be related to life-changing events. Some of the more common factors to be aware of include:
- Development of cognitive and memory problems
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s
- Chronic pain
- Cancer
- Feeling isolated and alone
- Loss of purpose after retirement
- Death of a spouse
- Financial problems
- Mobility issues
- Mental health issues
- Previous history of misusing substances
- Higher prevalence of access to addictive prescription medications
Preventative Measures for Substance Abuse in the Elderly
A multi-faceted approach is needed to implement preventative measures for substance abuse in the elderly, such as:
- Educating seniors about the proper use of prescription medications.
- Limiting prescription medications to only those required.
- Detailed screenings for substance use and mental health disorders during healthcare visits.
- Assistance with medication management to reduce the risk of misuse.
- Encouraging seniors to remain active and find new hobbies and social activities after retirement.
- Regular monitoring by family members and caregivers.
- Promoting healthy lifestyle choices includes physical activity, eating healthy, and getting sufficient sleep.
Signs of Drug Use in Seniors
It can be difficult for family and friends to recognize the signs of drug use in seniors. Some common signs to look for are:
- Running out of prescription drugs frequently
- Claiming to have lost or misplaced prescription medications
- Changes in eating habits
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Isolation from family and friends
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities previously enjoyed
- Irritability and mood swings
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Memory and cognitive problems
- Unexplained injuries
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions
- Stealing prescriptions from others
- Unexplained financial difficulties
How to Approach a Senior Suspected of Drug Use
When a loved one is noticing the signs of drug use in seniors, it is important to approach the situation carefully. It requires remaining non-judgmental while showing empathy and sensitivity. The discussion should take place in a setting where the senior is most comfortable.
Additionally, it is vital to approach them when they are less likely to be under the influence of substances. The conversion should begin by expressing concern for their well-being. It is essential to show respect and not talk down to them or treat them like a child. Doing so could put them on the offensive and make them less willing to talk.
Make sure to ask open-ended questions and actively listen to their responses. Another option is to get assistance from a professional interventionist experienced in working with seniors.
The Impact of Drug Use on Seniors’ Health
Drug use affects seniors in various ways and has potential health impacts. Drugs often cause chemical changes in the brain and regulate the relapse of neurotransmitters. Certain substances can affect coordination and balance, leading to increased injuries and falls.
Drug abuse can also cause memory and cognitive problems, which can further exacerbate conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Regular substance use can also increase the risks of diabetes, heart disease, seizures, strokes, kidney problems, and liver problems. Furthermore, mental health issues can worsen with drug misuse.
How Does Senior Addiction Treatment Work?
At our senior rehab center, we take a personalized and comprehensive approach to senior addiction treatment. Our caring and supportive team of medical and addiction professionals understands the needs of seniors are different from younger people struggling with substance use disorders.
Seniors could have underlying health issues, mental health disorders, or other factors that led to their addiction. As such, our treatment program helps uncover these issues and includes appropriate care to treat health problems and mental health disorders.
We also work one-on-one with our senior clients and encourage their participation in developing their personalized addiction treatment plans. Phoenix Rising Recovery encourages support from family and friends as part of our senior addiction treatment.
Many seniors can turn to drugs and alcohol as a means to cope with feeling isolated and alone. By involving family and friends in their treatment, they can learn more about addiction and what they can do to help support their loved ones in sustaining long-term recovery.
Aftercare is another important aspect of our senior addiction treatment. Seniors in recovery need regular monitoring, support, and guidance to maintain their sobriety. We offer ongoing services as well as alumni activities and events to help keep seniors active and connected with their peers.
Alcohol Rehab for Seniors
Alcohol rehab for seniors requires special care due to the unique needs of seniors. Many seniors have drunk alcohol for decades. Some could be high-functioning alcoholics. Others may have been brought up where it is okay to self-medicate negative emotions with alcohol. Seniors can also turn to drinking out of boredom. At Phoenix Rising Recovery, we address the unique challenges of seniors with alcohol use disorders.
Some of the benefits of our alcohol rehab program for seniors include:
- Patient-centric care
- Personalized treatment plan
- Medically supervised detox with 24/7 monitoring
- Access to all levels of alcohol rehab – residential, PHP, IOP, outpatient, and aftercare
- Veteran-specific program for veterans of our armed services
- First responder-specific program for retired firefighters, police officers, and EMTs
Drug Rehab for Seniors
Many people can seem surprised when they discover their elderly parents and loved ones are struggling with drug addiction. Some of the most commonly abused drugs by seniors include:
- Prescription Opioids
- Prescription Benzodiazepines
- Recreational and Medical Marijuana
- Prescription Sedatives
- Prescription Tranquilizers
Our drug rehab programs for seniors focus on helping through detox with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using FDA-approved medications when appropriate. We also carefully wean seniors off substances rather than having them quit “cold turkey.” Weaning gradually reduces dosages, allowing their bodies to adjust while minimizing withdrawal symptoms.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies for Seniors
Holistic therapies are well-suited for seniors in recovery. Our senior rehab center offers a variety of holistic treatment options, such as yoga, art therapy, meditation, exercise, and nutritional counseling. Many of these therapies help keep seniors active and engaged while helping heal their mind, body, and spirit.
We also incorporate evidence-based modalities with our holistic therapies to provide a comprehensive treatment program. Some of the evidence-based therapies we use are:
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling
- CBT
- DBT
- Trauma therapy
- Family therapy
Support Systems for Senior Rehab
A vital component of senior addiction treatment is providing them access to support systems. During rehab, our senior clients participate in group sessions where they can connect with their peers – other seniors in rehab. Building a peer support network helps seniors develop new friendships. It also allows them to learn from their peers and have friends they can turn to when they need support post-rehab.
Resources and Helplines for Seniors in Rehab
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides resources and has a National Helpline for seniors and families struggling with substance use and mental health disorders. Their phone number is 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
For seniors who are contemplating self-harm or suicidal behavior, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and is free. Just call 988 from any mobile phone. Online chat is also offered through their website.
You may also call us for assistance in finding resources and helplines.
Phoenix Rising’s Senior Rehab Centers in Palm Spring, California
Phoenix Rising Recovery provides access to treatment programs developed for seniors with alcohol and drug use disorders. Our senior rehab centers also treat co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. We provide compassionate and comprehensive care customized to the specific needs of seniors. Contact us today for further information about our senior rehab program or to start your recovery treatment.
Sources:
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National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020, September). Substance use in older adults drugfacts. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-in-older-adults-drugfacts
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2019). 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health: Detailed tables. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/cbhsq-reports/NSDUHDetailedTabs2018R2/NSDUHDetTabsSect1pe2018.htm
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). National helpline. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. (n.d.). We’re here for you. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. https://988lifeline.org/