Coalition on Substance Abuse & Older Vermonters

Are you concerned about an older adult with a substance abuse problem? The Coalition on Substance Abuse & Older Vermonters is a group of concerned individuals and organizations committed to promoting public awareness and providing resources for addressing the needs of older adults and their families affected by substance abuse and resulting issues.

Substance Abuse

Among Seniors

A Hidden Epidemic

Did you know that older adults, age 60 years and older, make up the fastest growing group in the U.S. who are affected by substance abuse?

Despite the growing numbers,  this epidemic is very well hidden and often overlooked. There are many reasons for this:

• Prescription drugs and alcohol use is very commonplace in our day to day lives. Alcohol is used for celebrations and social events. Prescription medication is used to help us stay and feel healthy as we age. Yet for many people, alcohol and prescription medications can cause serious problems in the form of addiction, misuse and abuse.
• There is a stigma attached to substance abuse. We think it can only happen to the homeless and disinfranchised, not our own parents and grandparents. But, substance abuse does not discriminate. It affects all people from all walks of life, socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

Substance Abuse

Among Seniors

A Hidden Epidemic

Did you know that older adults, age 60 years and older, make up the fastest growing group in the U.S. who are affected by substance abuse?

Despite the growing numbers,  this epidemic is very well hidden and often overlooked. There are many reasons for this:

• Prescription drugs and alcohol use is very commonplace in our day to day lives. Alcohol is used for celebrations and social events. Prescription medication is used to help us stay and feel healthy as we age. Yet for many people, alcohol and prescription medications can cause serious problems in the form of addiction, misuse and abuse.
• There is a stigma attached to substance abuse. We think it can only happen to the homeless and disinfranchised, not our own parents and grandparents. But, substance abuse does not discriminate. It affects all people from all walks of life, socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels.

The Coalition on Substance Abuse & Older Vermonters now has a television show!

The show is called "Healthy Aging" and  it will cover different topics of interest for seniors and their families about issues of aging and substance abuse.

• Older adults are much more likely to feel ashamed of their problem and to hide it well. They are also much less likely to ask for help or talk about their problem.
• Family members, especially adult children can feel ashamed of the elder's problem or not really believe it's a serious problem and therefore ignore the situation entirely. Or they may feel that because their parent is older, they have the right to drink or use drugs however they may please.
• Healthcare providers and caretakers often mistake substance abuse and misuse symptoms in older adults for symptoms of depression or dementia. Providers and caretakers can also feel uncomfortable about expressing their concern. They may also not be aware of programs that specifically address the special needs of seniors.
• The relationship between aging and substance abuse is not well understood. researchers are focusing on developing a greater understanding of this relationship and also ways to incorporate this understanding into more effective and appropriate screening, prevention and treatment services for senior

 Where to Find Help

Seniors, Family & Friends

Vermont 211

Vermont Dept. of Health

AA in Vermont

 Learn more about polypharmacy

Managing Your Medications

drugwatch.com

Vermont Recovery Network

Vermont Council on Problem Gambling

Professionals

What We Don't Know Can Hurt Them

Understanding Substance Abuse Among Seniors

New England Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC)

Polypharmacy