The senior’s addiction to drugs or alcohol can be a severe problem. The seniors must get the help they need to overcome this issue. There are many reasons why it can be difficult for seniors to end their abuse of substances, but there are also some tips for recovering from their addiction.
Why Seniors Abuse Drugs & Alcohol
Older people tend to abuse chemicals because they often have physical problems that make them want or need prescription medications. Many seniors take painkillers every day to function correctly with ease, but these pills can lead to addiction if taken regularly.
Not only that, but seniors are also more likely to have chronic medical problems, increasing their dependence on prescription drugs. Not being able to cope with the pain or anxiety that they suffer from is another reason some seniors take medications that can lead to abuse and addiction.
Another problem that leads seniors to turn to substances is depression. Mental health problems such as anxiety and clinical depression tend to be symptoms of old age; seniors who suffer from these symptoms may want more substantial than talk therapy. Some turn to alcohol, while others start taking illegal drugs to deal with all of their symptoms and get rid of them for good.
Finally, it is crucial to remember boredom. Seniors often find themselves stuck in the house with nothing to do. Without physical, mental, or emotional challenges, they may start feeling like life is worthless. It can lead them to abuse substances that make these feelings go away. For this, many home care assists such seniors; in contrast, arcadia homecare provides some tips that can assist those trying to recover from drug and alcohol addiction.
Do’s And Don’ts For Seniors Recovering From Addiction
Do’s:
Do start by encouraging your loved one to visit a doctor. They can refer them to a treatment program or prescribe medication that will help curb their drug cravings, so they have time to recover from their addiction. But don’t expect an addict to go of their own free will- when you notice signs of substance abuse in older adults (and this includes changes in behavior like social withdrawal), immediately take action.
Have patience with them during rehabilitation; it can sometimes take several attempts before an addict successfully beats their addiction. Relapses are common among recovering addicts because it takes time to change a long-standing pattern of behavior. But don’t give up on them! They will need your support more than ever when they return home from rehab or treatment.
Do think of ways to help build their self-esteem so they have a reason to stay sober once they leave inpatient addiction treatment. Please encourage them to take a walk with you, go shopping for new clothes, or schedule that massage you’ve been promising them for months. Helping seniors recover from the damages that addiction has brought upon their lives is vital to beating this disease.
Don’t’s
Do put yourself first for once. It means turning down some of the responsibilities you’ve taken on so someone else can help lighten your load. Spending time with friends, getting some exercise, and taking up a new activity are all great ways to take care of yourself while helping an older adult recover from drug addiction.
Don’t talk about what your loved one is going through in front of other people unless it’s essential. They deal with a serious issue, and they don’t need any added stress. Instead, tell people you’re having a family reunion or dinner party where they will be present so your loved one won’t feel singled out or embarrassed.
Don’t be afraid to seek help outside the home if that is what it takes to ensure your loved one’s safety. Many rehab centers offer short-term senior living arrangements where recovering addicts can live during treatment without putting their lives in danger.
Don’t expect your loved ones to be 100% sober when they leave a treatment program. It takes time to undo the damage addiction has caused, and some addicts will relapse after a few months of abstinence. But don’t give up on them- with continued support from people who care about their wellbeing, most elderly drug addicts can turn things around.
Wrapping Up!
Addiction is a disease that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. Seniors who become addicted to drugs don’t get the help they need because traditional treatment programs aren’t designed for them, and they don’t want to be surrounded by younger addicts when getting sober. But addiction recovery programs for older adults are becoming more common every day, and if you suspect an older adult in your life has a drug problem, please take action. Nobody should be addicted to drugs due to a lack of options.
