Substance abuse among older adults is increasing, with the most common types of addiction in older adults including alcohol, prescription drugs, nicotine, caffeine, as well as compulsive behaviours such as gambling or internet addiction.
Typically, addiction is not associated with older adults. Common stereotypes often link addiction to younger people, overlooking the fact that older adults can also struggle with substance abuse and addiction. Common factors that contribute to addiction in this demographic include loneliness, physical pain and side effects of medication.
This blog will explore the rising issue of addiction among older adults and the unique challenges they face to raise awareness and help their families, caregivers and healthcare workers recognise signs of addiction and provide effective support.
One significant factor of older adults being at increased risk of addiction is isolation and loneliness, which could result in substance misuse as a coping mechanism.
Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety can also increase the risk as people may use substances to self-medicate. Also, ongoing health issues and chronic pain that require prescription medication have potential to lead older adults to drug dependency.
As we age, natural changes in our brain chemistry and neurotransmitter levels are likely to make older adults more vulnerable and susceptible to addiction.
Finally, the stereotype that addiction is primarily a younger person’s issue may prevent older adults from seeking the help they need.
Addiction is harder to detect in older adults due to a lack of awareness and understanding of addiction in this demographic.
Many older adults who have chronic health conditions may mask symptoms of addiction. Subtle changes in mood or behaviour might be attributed to aging or the side effects of genuine medication.
There is also a common belief that addiction only affects younger adults, which can lead to oversight. As older adults typically socialise less than younger adults, there is less chance of other people noticing troubling or problematic behaviour.
It is possible that older adults may unintentionally misuse medicines by forgetting to take their medicine, taking it too often or taking the wrong amount.
Older adults are impacted differently by alcohol and drugs due to changes in metabolism, sensitivity, interactions with medications and age-related health conditions. These factors can all lead to heightened risk of addiction.
Aging causes changes in brain chemistry making older adults more sensitive to the effects of drugs and alcohol. Similarly, as we age, our bodies process substances more slowly – this results in stronger and longer-lasting effects.
There are substantial dangers of addiction for the elderly due to a number of age-related concerns. Older adults often take prescription drugs that become dangerous when mixed with alcohol and illicit drugs.
Addiction to drugs and alcohol can also make pre-existing health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and liver problems, worse.
Common mental health concerns in older adults, such as isolation, depression and dementia, can intensify the impact of addiction, making it harder to seek treatment and recover.
While it may be harder to detect and denial is often strong, older adults can recover from substance abuse. Understanding how to identify addiction and the unique risks that older adults face, allows families, friends and healthcare workers to provide effective treatment and support.
Here at ANA Treatment Centres, we provide comprehensive and personalised care for people seeking recovery, whatever their age or the nature of their addiction.
We foster a supportive community where patients can connect with others who may have similar experiences and we encourage patients to maintain contact with their existing support systems. We incorporate a range of holistic therapies with traditional treatment methods to support the overall well-being and long-term recovery of our clients.
Our comprehensive and compassionate approach ensures that you receive the best possible care tailored to your particular needs. If you or a loved one is in need of rehab support, get in touch with us to help your journey to recovery.
