How to Address the Barriers to Recognizing Substance Abuse Problems in Senior Adults
- 1). Recognize the seriousness of substance abuse in older adults. Reports estimate that as many as 1 in 6 older Americans has a drinking problem. Those numbers are projected to almost triple before the end of the next decade, yet a lack of knowledge persists as to the extent and seriousness of drug and alcohol problems among the senior population.
- 2). Look for the signs of alcohol and/or drug abuse. Health-care professionals play a major role, as physical exams often reveal related medical problems like high blood pressure and signs of liver damage. Other symptoms may include frequent falls, confusion, poor coordination, headaches and blackouts, which can be the result of mixing alcohol and medication. Sleep problems, depression, irritability and fatigue are additional signs of misusing medication.
- 3). Educate health-care providers. Medical conditions like depression, heart disease, diabetes and injuries from falls, while often found in seniors who have substance abuse problems, are common among the senior population in general. Physicians need to develop clear communication with older patients so that age-appropriate doses of medication are prescribed. Doctors need to help seniors understand the implications of possible interactions between alcohol and medication.
- 4). Discourage stereotypical stigmas related to alcohol and drug abuse. Don't be judgmental when talking to the person with the problem, but rather encourage him to seek the help he needs. Although this can be a sensitive issue to approach, research suggests that the body's rate of metabolism decreases with age, which means that even moderate use of alcohol can have serious medical consequences for an older adult with decreased tolerance for drugs and alcohol. Caregivers and health professionals must consider that prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications can take longer to leave an older person's system, often changing how these substances affect the body.
- 5). Increase support for caregivers. Whether caregivers include family members or hired home-care aides or nurses, they need to be able to recognize the signs of substance misuse or abuse. Medication management should be an essential part of education for caregivers. Not taking medications correctly can have serious health consequences, which makes it more important to develop programs that focus on effective prevention, intervention and treatment.
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