Substance abuse is an overlooked healthcare issue as the addiction of individuals aged sixty-five and older are often underdiagnosed and underestimated, which prevents them from receiving the care they need. According to Kuerbis, Sacco, Blazer, and Moore, for alcohol abuse, the estimated prevalence among individuals aged sixty-five and older is 1.2%, while for tobacco, the prevalence rate is 14%. In regards to illicit substance abuse, within the last several years, the rate has doubled, reaching 7.2%. Risk factors vary significantly within the population and may depend on anything from health history to the lack of care.
In order to communicate the risks of substance abuse among the elderly, it is essential to mention potential triggers that may increase the chances of the elderly getting addicted to either drugs or alcohol. Among these triggers are retirement, the death of a family member, a spouse, or a close friend, moving to a different location (especially a nursing home), the decline of physical and mental health, as well as the loss of steady income. In many cases, there are multiple triggers that cause older adults to get addicted to substances, which is why it is important to provide the necessary support and care for the population.
- Interprofessional Health Promotion Resources: Substance Abuse in Adults
- Substance Abuse and Impact on the Family
- Substance Abuse Disorder Causes, Syptoms, Types
- Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
- Personality and Substance Abuse
- Substance Abuse Effects on Person and Community
- Patients with a Substance Use Disorder
- Substance Abuse Versus Addiction