It’s a common misconception that seniors are not affected by substance abuse, but in reality, anyone can develop this disorder. We must not take our older loved ones for granted. Consider this: seniors often undergo surgery, and their recovery may involve the use of powerful painkillers, which are known – and this is a scientific consensus – to be highly addictive. Therefore, it’s not uncommon for seniors to develop an addiction to prescription medication.
Today, we will discuss how to create a safer environment for seniors recovering from addiction. If your senior loved one/s is/are struggling with recovery, there are many ways you can help ease the process.
Taking facts into account
To ensure you understand that senior addiction is a real and serious issue, we’ll present you with some eye-opening facts. We’ll reference data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) website.
General picture (the numbers)
As mentioned in the introduction, substance abuse among older adults is a not-so-small and often overlooked issue. Nearly 1 million seniors (adults aged 65 and older) live with a substance use disorder (SUD). Between 2000 and 2012, the proportion of seniors admitted to treatment facilities for SUD-related issues increased from 3.4% to 7.0%.
How substance abuse affects seniors
If you’re wondering whether seniors are impacted differently by substance abuse compared to younger individuals (who represent the demographic most susceptible to developing SUD) – they are.
Aging can lead to social and physical changes that increase vulnerability to substance misuse. Seniors metabolize substances more slowly and their brains are more sensitive to drugs and alcohol. They are also more likely to face mood disorders, heart issues, and memory problems, which substance use can make even worse. Not to mention that impaired judgment and coordination due to drug use can lead to various accidents, posing greater health risks (for both individuals and the wider community) and longer recovery times for seniors.
Common substances abused by seniors
Seniors most often misuse prescription medications, alcohol, and marijuana.
Because opioids have a significant potential for addiction, prescription painkillers – especially those with prescriptions – are often abused. Despite the FDA’s (US Food and Drug Administration) lack of approval, the usage of medical marijuana has grown, with many seniors beginning to use it to treat chronic pain and other health conditions. In older individuals, alcohol consumption is still the most prevalent drug, and binge and high-risk drinking is on the rise. These patterns emphasize the necessity of close observation and assistance for senior citizens to stop and manage drug misuse.
Seniors in addiction treatment and recovery
Seniors undergoing recovery need dedicated attention and personalized therapy to address their specific needs and reasons for seeking treatment. Not enough people get adequate help for their substance use disorder. In larger states, the situation can be even worse. For example, in California in 2021, only about 10% of people with an SUD in the last year received treatment.
Each senior has a unique life history and circumstances that must be carefully taken into account to support their recovery effectively. For instance, some treatment centers across the Golden State are adopting this tailored approach to ensure seniors receive the personalized care essential for their path to sobriety. The esteemed We Level Up California offers a customized approach but also a range of proven and experimental therapeutic methods, including dual-diagnosis treatment. This approach addresses both substance abuse and any underlying mental health issues simultaneously.
How to create a safe(r) environment for seniors recovering from addiction
There are several ways you can ensure your senior feels safe, supported, and accepted during their recovery journey, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and ease of the process for them. Here’s what you can do!
Stay involved and up-to-date with your senior’s recovery process
It’s important to participate in your senior’s recovery process actively. Attend family therapy sessions to understand their progress and challenges. Educate yourself about the stages of recovery so you can provide meaningful support and encouragement. Being patient and understanding that recovery is a step-by-step journey will help you navigate this process effectively.
Listen without inflicting judgment
Maintain an open and non-judgmental stance when communicating with your senior about their recovery. Avoid criticizing or dismissing their experiences. Create a safe space for them to share what they think and feel without fear of judgment. Make sure to listen attentively so that you can better understand what they need and offer appropriate support.
Encourage physical activity and promote healthy habits
Motivate your senior to engage in physical activities that are suitable for their health condition and abilities. Physical exercise can improve mood, reduce stress, and contribute to overall well-being. Establish a daily routine that includes nutritious meals, regular sleep patterns, and other healthy habits. Consistency in these routines helps reinforce positive behaviors and supports their recovery journey.
Participate in their diet by preparing healthy, wholesome meals
You can help your loved one stick to a healthy diet by preparing nutritious meals together. Make sure to include them in grocery shopping and meal planning and to encourage healthy food choices. Consider dietary restrictions or preferences and ensure meals are enjoyable and satisfying. Eating regular, nutritious meals supports overall health and enhances energy levels during the recovery process.
Ensure physical safety of your senior(s)
Take proactive measures to ensure your senior’s physical safety and comfort throughout their recovery process. Assess their living environment for any potential danger and make all the needed adjustments to minimize the risk of accidents, such as installing handrails or removing tripping hazards. Provide additional assistance and supervision as needed to prevent falls and other injuries.
Conclusion
Introducing supportive daily routines can significantly aid your senior loved one’s recovery process, reducing the risk of relapse. Despite misconceptions, senior addiction is a serious issue that demands attention, as evidenced by the data provided. To ensure effectiveness, it’s crucial to implement the tips for creating a safe environment for seniors recovering from addiction outlined in the main section. By doing so, you’ll provide essential support and help them navigate their recovery journey with greater success.