Unfortunately, the stigma of alcoholism can prevent many older adults from getting help. Awareness of the problem as well as how to assist those suffering from alcoholism amongst this population is extremely important.
Alcohol Awareness
Each April since 1987, the National Council on Alcohol and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) has sponsored Alcohol Awareness Month to increase public awareness and understanding, reduce stigma, and encourage local communities to focus on alcoholism and alcohol-related issues. Unfortunately, the stigma of alcoholism can prevent many older adults from getting help. Awareness of the problem as well as how to assist those suffering from alcoholism amongst this population is extremely important.
According to an article in Harvard Health Publishing, “alcohol use in older adults has been on an upward trend, particularly among women.” One survey they looked at determined that in the United States between 2001 and 2013, among people 65 and older, the rate of alcohol use disorder increased 107%.
Another article from the Alcohol Rehab Guide suggests that in 2020 roughly 5.7 million seniors suffered from substance use disorder, including alcoholism. “Drinking problems among those entering their golden years are sometimes overlooked or even misdiagnosed”, according to the Alcohol Rehab Guide.
Some additional statistics in regards to alcoholism and the elderly include that widowers over 75 have the highest rate of alcoholism.
Every year, an estimated 6-11% of hospital admissions among seniors are related to alcohol or substance use.
Heavy alcohol consumption and binge drinking account for nearly 21,000 deaths each year among those ages 65 and older.
According to the National Institute on Aging, some factors or events may increase the risk of an elderly person falling victim to the disorder, including:
- Substance abuse screenings aren’t part of standard senior check-ups, making it difficult to detect a problem early on before it develops into a full-blown addiction.
- Empty nest syndrome occurs once all their children have left the house or moved out of their hometown. Feelings of abandonment or loneliness can drive seniors to alcohol to deal with these negative emotions.
- They may self-medicate due to increased health problems or aches and pains associated with aging.
- They may suffer depression over the aging process.
- They may feel boredom, as they are retired and lack an everyday purpose or enough socialization.
So what can be done about this devastating trend amongst our elders?
Treatment options may vary depending on the level of care required and can include preventative, education, and support services; medical detox; residential/inpatient services; and outpatient treatment.
According to American Addiction Centers, “Generally speaking, it may suit someone better to be in a treatment program with peers and other individuals in similar life circumstances. Since older adults may abuse substances for different reasons than younger ones, it may be beneficial to separate treatment programs for different peer groups.”
If you or someone you know may be suffering from alcoholism and/or substance abuse please click here additional information and resources: National Institute on Aging - Getting Help for Alcohol Problems.
