Substance Abuse in Older Adults

Substance Abuse in Older Adults

• Older adults (age 65+) are more likely to abuse alcohol and/or prescription medications.
• Survey data reveals 7.5% reported binge drinking and 1.4% reported heavy drinking in the past month.
• Excessive benzodiazepine use is common, with seniors frequently taking higher doses and for longer durations than other age groups.
• Older adults consume significantly more prescription medications than the general population, a trend expected to increase with the aging Baby Boomer generation.

Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

• Symptoms of substance abuse can mimic other common age-related conditions (dementia, diabetes, depression), making diagnosis difficult.
• Health care providers often underestimate substance abuse issues in older adults, leading to insufficient screening.
• Family dynamics and financial dependencies complicate treatment; if the older adult lives with their adult children, their spouses may also be affected.

Family Impact and Interventions

• Substance abuse in an older adult can negatively impact the entire household, including spouses and adult children.
• Family members may struggle with role reversal and emotional distress.
• Financial support may be reduced or withdrawn by adult children as a form of influence or to minimize pain.
• Cutting ties with an affected parent can worsen their isolation and situation.
• Mandatory reporting of elder abuse is a crucial intervention.