How Opioids are Affecting the Senior Population
When most think of the opioid epidemic, many people immediately think about how it is affecting the teenage to young adult age group. While this is true, opioids are affecting the senior population as well. The media often discusses the impacts of opioid abuse with the younger demographics, but the truth is that the senior population is becoming addicted to opioids as well. The good news is that our professional team at Advanced Rapid Detox is eager to help individuals take control of their opioid addiction, regardless of their age. It’s never too late to start living a better life and we’re here to help you get on the road to recovery from opioids.
Signs of Opioid Addiction
If you’ve recently noticed some changes in behavior with a senior citizen that you are close with, an addiction to opioids could be the cause. Common signs of opioid abuse in the elderly to look out for include memory issues, alterations of sleep patterns, bruising, changes to eating habits, poor hygiene, isolation, etc. If you’ve noticed these signs with an elderly individual, it’s important to address the opioid habit quickly. Especially at an older age, it is critical to get the individual into our detox treatment center at Advanced Rapid Detox before things get any worse. When it comes to the senior population, opioid addiction often begins because of various triggers such as retirement, a death in the family, financial issues, sleep issues, a decline in their mental or physical health, among other factors.
Growing Statistics Concerning Opioid Abuse in Senior Adults
A recent study by the Office of Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Services has found that 17% of individuals in the United States who are over age 65 have abused prescription medications. Prescription medication is used by roughly 30% of Americans over 65, so it should come as no surprise that this is causing an increase in opioid addictions in the senior population. Opioid abuse in the senior population is not something that should be taken lightly. This type of addiction is even more dangerous in Americans over age 65 because they are more susceptible to the negative effects of these drugs.
So, even though it may not be publicized by the media as much, opioids are affecting the senior population as well as younger adults and adolescents. If you know of a senior individual struggling with opioid use, pick up the phone and call our dedicated staff at Advanced Rapid Detox. From there, we’ll help the individual get back on the right track thanks to our highly effective opiate detox program. Contact us today at (800) 603-1813 to learn more.
