Learn The Nine Signs Of Elder Prescription Drug Addiction

New Jersey, 12/29/2016 /SubmitPressRelease123/

Aging is inevitable. Although some people manage to grow older without encountering many health problems, just as many people must control medical issues with prescription medication. Whether they suffer from chronic pain or a specific disorder, drugs can vastly improve a person’s quality of life when used responsibly.

However, prescription drugs can be abused just like any other chemical substance. And in many cases, people don’t even realize they have developed a dependence on their medication resulting in prescription drug addiction. For the elderly, this dependence can go unnoticed for years—especially when a senior takes a large quantity of medications on a regular basis.

Current studies suggest that about 2.5 million older adults in the U.S. have some type of chemical dependency, which accounts for up to 20 percent of elderly psychiatric hospital admissions. Seniors currently make up just 13 percent of the total population, but they account for 30 percent of all prescriptions issued in the country.

Common Signs of Addiction in Seniors

If your elderly parent or other loved one regularly takes prescription medication, it’s important to know the symptoms of potential addiction. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), the following behaviors may indicate a problem:

Drinking alone
Patterns of behavior or “ritualistic” behavior, such as a bedtime routine that involves drugs or alcohol
Losing interest in activities or hobbies
Hostile attitude
Depression
Confusion or memory loss
Slurred speech
Neglecting hygiene or personal appearance
Ignoring food and beverage consumption warnings on pill bottles

Because many of these warning signs can also be symptoms of age-related or other health conditions, it’s not always easy to identify a drug or alcohol abuse problem in an older person. This is why it’s important for caregivers, adult children, and other family members to have frequent contact and conversations with their elderly loved ones. The more time you spend with them, the more alert you will be to changes in their lifestyle and behavior.

The NCADD warns that seniors are at a higher risk of developing a chemical dependency after certain life events, such as losing a spouse or developing a disabling health condition. For example, almost 50 percent of nursing home residents struggle with alcohol abuse, and older Americans are hospitalized for alcohol-related problems just as often as they are for heart-related conditions.

Get Help for an Elderly Loved One

Alcohol and drug abuse in the elderly can exacerbate health problems and reduce a senior’s quality of life. If you suspect an older loved one is struggling with a drug or alcohol problem, help is available. Call Summit Behavioral Health today to learn more about our programs for adults.

Media Contact HQ

Rene Williams

(908) 364-5755

source: https://www.summitbehavioralhealth.com/blog/learn-nine-signs-elder-prescription-drug-addiction/

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