It’s not easy to recognize the signs of prescription drug addiction among seniors. Many older folks live alone and those who visit them aren’t always sure whether the warning signs they are seeing really represent a problem or just an off day for their loved one. Fewer seniors drive, so it’s harder to identify the problems that arise from driving under the influence, and even fewer seniors work so job-related issues caused by drug addiction aren’t a warning sign. Early alcoholism and drug addiction is often misdiagnosed as depression among seniors, and yet it is estimated that about 17 percent of those over the age of 60 are affected by prescription drug abuse. Another study estimates that about 11 percent of women over the age of 59 are addicted to psychoactive prescription drugs and yet another study by Harvard University reports that 28 percent of seniors, about 7 million people, are taking prescription drugs that are hazardous to their health. Many think that the Harvard study only scratches the surface that as many as 33 percent to 50 percent of seniors are taking drugs that are harmful, in doses that are just too high for what they need.

How do we get seniors struggling with prescription drug addiction the help they need?

Prescription Drug Addiction and Senior Injuries

Many seniors are prescribed painkillers and tranquilizers that make them sleepy and unable to balance easily when they walk. Already unsteady on their feet, the incidence of slip-and-fall accidents that result in hip injuries increase exponentially among seniors prescribed sedative drugs. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that 32,000 seniors will fracture their hips as a result of falling while under the influence of painkillers or tranquilizers.

Psychological issues are not uncommon among seniors due to prescription drug use, and many organic disorders are exacerbated by these medications. The former president of the American Society of Addiction Medicine has said that as many as much as 50 percent of the delirium among the elderly admitted to hospitals is a side effect of their prescription medications.

The Dangers of Combining Alcohol and Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are hard enough on seniors, but when combined with alcohol the effect can be lethal. It is estimated that about 10 percent of seniors drink heavily – about 12 to 20 drinks per week. Many don’t report the extent of their drinking even in the face of evidence like health problems directly related to alcohol abuse because they are embarrassed. Liver problems, kidney failure, heart disease and other ailments associated with alcoholism are prevalent among the elderly as well but few doctors identify alcoholism as the cause or a contributing factor due to the age of the patient.

Helping Your Loved One Accept Prescription Drug Addiction Help

Helping a senior family member recognize that they have a problem with prescription drug addiction is a difficult thing. Few want to believe it and even fewer will accept treatment. When you talk to your family member about the problem, wait until they are clear headed and sober, point out what they are missing by living in a haze, and let them know the risks associated with continuing to take dangerous prescription drugs and/ or drink heavily.

Tags: elderly prescription drug addiction, Prescription Drug Addiction, prescription drug addiction treatment, prescription drug rehab, senior painkiller addiction help

   

About Valeria W.

       

Valeria W. likes to consider herself "an encyclopedia" of addiction and rehab knowledge. Valeria lives to hear from people who have been positively influenced by her work - and sought out drug or alcohol rehab help as a result of the information she has provided.

Also written by: Valeria W.