Substance Abuse is Increasing Amongst Older Adults
In many countries, substance abuse amongst older adults has been identified as a fast growing health concern. Those born between 1946 and 1964 are part of a group that has an alarming high number of substance abusers. Also known as the baby boomers, this group of people were a generation of post-WWII children and grandchildren. Many of them were exposed to the 60’s hippy culture and have a history of drug use – more so than previous cohorts. Although alcohol is the most commonly abused substance for older adults, there has been an increase in prescription drug abuse, as well as other illicit substances.
Limited research has been done to examine just how many older adults are struggling with an addiction. In a 2013 study out of the U.S., it was believed as many as 2.8 million adults were addicted to alcohol. Researchers in this study estimated by 2020, this number would increase to 5.7 million. Such an increase in this population will also warrant the need for treatment and support that can be tailored to this group of people.
Also in the United States, up to 17 % of adults over 60 have an addiction to at least one substance. It is thought that most suffering from an addiction in this group are never diagnosed. Sadly, because of the lack of attention for this concern, many barriers for getting the help they need arise.
Drugs that Older Adults Are More Likely to Abuse
Unfortunately, as briefly mentioned above, there is limited research on a global level for older adults with a substance abuse disorder, or addiction. The United States has some of the most research in this area, but it is still limited. That being said The National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the American Geriatric Society estimate 10 % of older women and 16 % of older men are at risk drinkers. They also estimate 6.3 % of older women and 19.6 % of older men binge drink.
Older adults are prescribed the most medication out of any population. They are at a great risk for developing a dependency to painkillers, benzodiazepines, relaxants, antidepressants, psychiatric drugs, and more. They are also at a greater risk for misusing these drugs. The average adult, 60 years and older, are on five or more medications. Although they might not be trying to abuse drugs, ongoing use can build up a dependency and addiction.
Since marijuana has been decriminalized or legalised in most of the U.S., there has been a massive increase in both medicinal and recreational use from older adults. The problem is that this substance can negatively impact the respiratory and cardiovascular system of an older person. This may increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke.
Ultimately, people over the age of 60 are more susceptible to the effects of alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit drug use. This is partly due to the reduced capacity to metabolise these substances. As a result the brain becomes more sensitive to the substance.
Diagnosing an Addiction in an Older Adult
When most people think about someone who has an addiction, they will not think about the old man who just retired or about the grey haired gardener next door. Sadly, older adults rarely are diagnosed with an addiction because doctors often fail to properly assess it in the first place. Regardless of whether or not it is obvious, there are many warning signs to suggest older adults are turning to alcohol and drugs (mostly medications) at alarming levels.
Substance Abuse Amongst Older Adults
Some of the symptoms of an addiction are similar, even mimic, symptoms that are linked to medical conditions common in older adults. These include diabetes, dementia, and depression. Many doctors will blame the symptoms on getting older, and do nothing more for the patient.
Finally, some people believe an older person, or elder, has a right to use any substance they want because they are at the end of their life. Professional doctors or family members might even be uncomfortable asking an older adult if they have a substance abuse problem. This results in very few people above the age of 60 years getting help for an addiction.
The fact of the matter is that an older person can go to rehab. There is nothing wrong with choosing to do so, and could make this stage of life more comfortable. Older adults should look for a rehab that has therapists who are supportive and kind. It is well known that older adults are more successful at a rehab that cares for, and accepts, them. In addition to going to a rehab, older adults with an addiction might consider:
- Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous
- Online support groups
- Cognitive behavioural therapy
The unawareness of addiction amongst older adults should be addressed. Doctors should be looking for it, and loved ones should feel okay about asking their elders if they need help. At Siam Rehab, we have treated people of all ages. Our rehab in Thailand offers a safe place where adults can feel comfortable in addressing their emotional and mental health challenges alongside the challenges of an addiction. To learn more about Siam Rehab, please call us today.
