The Elderly Population & Addiction: How Addiction Affects The Elderly & Older Adults

As the body gets older, it metabolizes alcohol differently, leading to greater effects with smaller amounts of alcohol. According to the University of Pennsylvania, nearly 50 percent of nursing home residents have alcohol related problems. In addition, older adults are hospitalized as often for alcoholic related problems as heart attacks. 

Older adults and seniors can become unknowingly or unintentionally dependent on prescription medications which can lead to increased health complications. Some may also knowingly misuse medications from a doctor or take medications that were not prescribed. Over prescription of medications by providers can increase the risk of misuse. Taking medication as prescribed, including opioid pain medication, does not mean someone will develop a substance use disorder, even if the medication is taken regularly, however the risk can increase. If there are concerns about quantities or dosage of opioid or other medications it is important to address these with the prescriber.

Retirement can sound wonderful. However, transitioning from a busy work week to unfilled and unplanned days can be an overwhelming change. The impact of these circumstances can contribute to feelings of purposelessness, depression, boredom, and create financial strain. This sudden lifestyle change can lead individuals to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, more than 80 percent of older patients (aged 57 to 85 years) use at least one prescription medication on a daily basis, with more than 50 percent taking more than five medications or supplements daily. This can increase risk of medication mismanagement, and also create potential for misuse of prescriptions.

As a result of chronic pain, older adults may have used prescription opioids for a long time, which creates a higher risk for developing opioid use disorder. As people get older, medications can affect the body more strongly and the side effects of opioids can become more pronounced. Regular use of prescribed opioid medication does not necessarily mean someone will develop a substance use disorder, however the risk does increase. It is possible to be physically dependent on a substance without meeting criteria for a substance use disorder. Talking to a prescriber or licensed therapist with expertise in substance use treatment can be helpful in assessing potential problems.

As individuals age, their deteriorating physical and mental health can create instances of increased isolation. Impaired vision may keep them from driving and medical issues may keep them from being mobile. In addition, other problems such as dementia and Parkinson’s Disease can contribute to feelings of helplessness. Increased sense of social isolation often leads to feelings of loneliness, which can contribute to using substances as a way of coping.

According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 20% of individuals 55 years and older experience a mental health concern. Circumstances around these issues can include unexpected life changes. Losing a loved one, or surviving traumatic experiences such as elderly abuse by an individual or caregiver can trigger symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression.