Substance abuse also affects older adults
Abuse and misuse of alcohol or drugs was once considered a problem only among the young. Unfortunately, substance abuse has become a growing problem among older adults as well. Research has shown that misuse of alcohol and/or other drugs is a common cause of physical and mental health problems in older Americans, especially older men.Some people struggle with substance use from a young age. However, late onset of substance abuse is common after the age of 55 in response to a difficult event that occurs in an individual’s life, including retirement, death of loved ones or other losses. Individuals who are late onset drinkers compose approximately one-third of all older adults with substance use problems.
Substance abuse has clear and profound effects on the health and well-being of older adults in all aspects of life. Substance abuse has negative effects on self-esteem, coping skills and relationships, which can add to other losses that are common in the later stages of life. Additionally, substance abuse may interfere with prescribed and over the counter medications used by older adults.
The warning signs or red flags of substance abuse are less obvious in older adults than in younger individuals because they are also symptoms of other illnesses or diseases that are common in later life. Many older adults are retired and drink at home by themselves, so they are not likely to come to the attention of law enforcement or to miss work because of drinking.
Possible red flags of substance abuse in older adults include social isolation, financial problems, falls and/or unsteady walking, increased tolerance to alcohol, poor hygiene, poor nutrition or loss of appetite, anxiety and/or depression, mood swings and/or confusion, slurred speech, memory loss, and sleep disturbances.
The stigma associated with having a substance abuse problem, especially for older adults, may prevent family members or friends asking if such a problem exists. However, asking questions, showing concern, seeking support, education and treatment are critical in helping individuals who are abusing alcohol and/or drugs. Older adults can successfully recover from substance abuse through involvement in counseling, education and AA. Recognizing that substance abuse is a problem is the first step in recovery.
There is help available. Tuscarawas County Substance Abuse and Addiction Resources:
• Harbor House Halfway House
330-343-2778, ext. 213
24 hour hotline at 330-364-1374
Residential treatment program for women and their children
• Personal and Family Counseling Services
330-343-8171
Out-patient drug and alcohol treatment
• Community Mental Healthcare
24 hour crisis line at 330-343-1811 or 330-627-5240
Out-patient drug and alcohol treatment
• Alcohol and Addiction Program
330-343-5555
Out-patient and intensive out-patient drug and alcohol treatment
• Canton Crisis Center Detox
330-588-2207
• IMPACT Mercy Medical Center
330-489-1233
Intensive out-patient drug and alcohol treatment