It is not uncommon for seniors to face life-changing situations that create stress and turmoil. When that happens, it’s also possible for them to seek support and to self-medicate. If you’re older, or your family member is, and the use of alcohol or drugs is increasing, it may be time to seek help.
Drug and alcohol treatment in Terre Haute is available at Anabranch Recovery Center. We work with people who need hands-on support to recover from addiction and reclaim their future.
Why Are Seniors At Risk for Drug Addiction and Dependence?
Substance use disorder (SUD) in seniors is not uncommon. Older adults may face several factors that make them more prone to developing dependence, with as many as 1 million adults over the age of 65 living with an SUD. Examples include:
- Physical risks: A person who’s older is more likely to face complications from alcohol or drug consumption because of aging livers and kidneys. These organs may not work as effectively as they did, leading to more toxicity and a higher risk of accumulation of substances.
- Medical injuries: A senior who suffers a fall or has medical procedures may use opioids for pain relief, as expected. However, for some, chronic pain can lead to dependency on those substances, leading to an SUD over time.
- Mental health issues: Substances can be a form of self-medication for people who are battling complications like stress and past trauma, leading to increasing use and, ultimately, the development of addictive behaviors.
- Psychosocial stressors: Seniors are also more at risk for psychological factors that impact use, such as loneliness and loss of friends. Retirement changes a person’s daily tasks and responsibilities, often leading to excessive downtime.
- Underdiagnosed symptoms: Addiction develops over time, but some of the initial symptoms are harder to recognize as being related to addiction. For example, fatigue, memory loss, and loss of concentration may be blamed on old age, without the realization that it is, in fact, an SUD.
- Current medication use: Those who are already taking numerous types of medication may face an increased risk of dependency. This can lead to accidental misuse or interactions between medications.
Recognizing the risk of these and other risk factors allows you to take action. If you believe your loved one is struggling with substance use or you are facing complexities, we encourage you to speak to our team about your options.
Substances Commonly Misused by Seniors
Substance use in seniors can occur in various ways. That can include:
- Prescription medications, including those for opioid treatment
- Benzodiazepines, often used to treat sleep disorders and anxiety
- Alcohol
- Cannabis
If you are using these substances and you feel that you need to increase the amount you take, it may be time to seek help. Drug and alcohol treatment can help you to regain control over the complications you’re facing.
How to Know a Senior Needs Help With an SUD
To determine if an SUD is occurring, speak to our admissions team. Some of the most common signs that a person may need additional help include:
- Isolation seems to increase, especially pulling away from activities important to them
- Changes in hygiene or appearance
- Missing appointments or not staying ahead of responsibilities
- Requesting medication refills early
- Intense cravings or thoughts of the substance frequently
- Trying to stop using it and failing to do so
These are very real factors that contribute to a person’s health and well-being. You may be older, but you still deserve to live a healthy lifestyle that keeps you in control over the future. With treatment, you can achieve those goals.
How to Get Treatment for SUD as a Senior
You believe you have an SUD. Now what?
Like any other medical condition or disorder, treatment can help. Treatment means reclaiming control, reducing health complications, improving mental health, and giving you a better long-term outlook on your future.
At Anabranch Recovery Center, we offer a range of treatment programs that can help you.
- Detox treatment: Best suited for those who are in active addiction and unable to stop using, detox is a powerful way to regain control.
- Residential treatment: Many people face ongoing challenges with addiction that require inpatient care for several weeks. This is a life-changing opportunity that can restore balance and drive future wellbeing.
- In-person intensive outpatient program: IOP provides a way for individuals to receive care on an ongoing basis with nearly daily treatment visits. The difference is that you can go home after it.
- Virtual intensive outpatient program: We also offer IOP via virtual appointments, providing you with a treatment plan that lets you get care from home.
If you are facing uncertainty about the future, reach out to our team for immediate help. Seniors are very much able to get into treatment to restore health and well-being. Contact Anabranch Recovery Center now for immediate help and guidance.
