Our Addiction Resources

As the population ages, the complexities of managing health conditions increase, often leading to the use of multiple medications. While prescription medications are necessary for treating various ailments, there’s a growing concern about the abuse of these drugs among older adults.

However, it’s not just prescription medications that pose a risk; alcohol and even some over-the-counter medications also frequently contribute to substance abuse issues in this demographic.

Understanding the scope and impact of these commonly abused substances is crucial for developing effective prevention and management strategies. This understanding helps ensure that older people can enjoy a higher quality of life, free from the constraints of substance abuse.

Commonly Abused Drugs

As older adults age, they often experience a range of health issues that necessitate the use of multiple medications and can lead to substance use disorders. Understanding the most commonly abused drugs in this demographic from the National Institute on Drug Abuse is essential for prevention and management.¹

Alcohol

What drug is most commonly abused by older adults? Alcohol. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism shows that 20% of the age group 60-64 years and 10% of 65 years and older report binge drinking.²

Alcohol and prescription drugs are commonly used together, which can significantly increase the risk of adverse interactions. Alcohol can exacerbate the effects of medications, increasing sedation and confusion, and complicate the management of chronic conditions.

Prescription Opioids

Opioids are one of the most commonly prescribed medications by healthcare providers for pain management in millions of adults aged 65 years and older, particularly for chronic conditions such as arthritis, cancer pain, and neuropathic pain.¹

Drugs like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl offer effective pain relief but also pose a high risk of misuse of prescription drugs and overdose. Due to their age-related slower metabolism and organ function, older patients may experience prolonged drug effects and side effects, increasing the risk of dependency.

Marijuana

The legalization and increasing social acceptance of marijuana have led to its rising use among older adults for both medicinal and recreational purposes. While marijuana can provide benefits such as pain relief and reduction in anxiety, it also carries risks, particularly when used in conjunction with other medications.¹

For older individuals, the psychoactive effects of THC, the primary active compound in marijuana, can exacerbate cognitive impairments and lead to confusion, disorientation, and memory lapses. Additionally, marijuana in any form from dabs to edibles can interact with prescription medications like blood thinners, antidepressants, and anxiety medications.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are frequently prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and even muscle spasms in older patients. Medications like lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium), and alprazolam (Xanax) are effective for short-term relief but are associated with a high risk of substance use disorders.¹

Prolonged use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects, and can severely impact cognitive function, increasing the risk of falls and accidents.

Antidepressants

While generally less addictive, antidepressants for mental health can still be misused by older adults, particularly when they are taken without proper medical supervision or in conjunction with other medications.

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) can interact with other drugs, leading to increased side effects or diminished effectiveness of treatment programs.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

Older adults might also misuse over-the-counter medications, including sleep aids and cold medicines. Products containing antihistamines or cough suppressants can be problematic due to their sedative properties, which can be intensified in older bodies.²

The Risk of Polypharmacy

Polypharmacy refers to the concurrent use of multiple medications by a patient, typically to manage several health conditions simultaneously. This practice is particularly prevalent among aging baby boomers, who often have multiple chronic diseases requiring various treatments. While necessary for managing these conditions, polypharmacy significantly increases the complexity of care, heightening the risk of drug interactions and adverse effects.

The use of numerous medications can lead to a higher likelihood of adverse drug reactions. Each additional medication not only adds a potential for interactions that can diminish the effectiveness of treatments but also increases the risk of severe side effects. These interactions can cause unexpected health issues such as increased blood pressure, kidney damage, or gastrointestinal distress.

The integration of recreational drugs like alcohol and marijuana into an older adult’s regimen compounds the risks associated with polypharmacy. These substances can interact with prescription medications, potentially leading to enhanced sedative effects, altered drug metabolism, and increased cognitive impairment. Such interactions are particularly dangerous for the elderly, whose organ function may already be compromised.

Population-Specific Effects

The effects of drug abuse can be more pronounced in older adults due to several age-related physiological changes:

• Metabolism and Excretion
  As the body ages, liver and kidney functions slow down, affecting how medications are metabolized and excreted. This can lead to drugs staying in the body longer, increasing the risk of side effects and complications.¹

• Increased Sensitivity
  Older adults often exhibit increased sensitivity to medications due to decreased body water, increased fat storage, and changes in the central nervous system. These changes can amplify the effects of drugs, making therapeutic doses potentially harmful.

• Cognitive and Physical Health
  The impact of drug abuse can exacerbate existing health problems. Cognitive impairments can worsen, leading to poor decision-making and difficulties with daily living activities. Physically, the risk of falls and other injuries increases, potentially leading to a cycle of increased medication use to manage pain from such injuries.

Supporting Older Individuals Abusing Drugs

Supporting elderly individuals struggling with drug abuse requires a comprehensive and compassionate approach tailored to their unique needs. Recognizing signs of substance abuse in older adults, such as changes in behavior, isolation, or neglect of personal hygiene, is critical for early intervention.

Medical evaluation and health care are essential to determine the extent of the abuse and any underlying health issues. Treatment options include medically supervised detoxification, inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation, and therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Regular medical reviews, patient and caregiver education, and the use of support groups and community resources are also crucial to effectively support recovery and improve the quality of life for elderly individuals facing substance abuse issues.

Explore Options for Elderly Drug Abuse With Lumina Recovery

Addressing drug abuse among older adults demands a nuanced understanding of the unique challenges and risks they face. By fostering a compassionate and informed approach, we can significantly mitigate the impacts of drug abuse in older adults and promote healthier, safer aging for all.

Lumina Recovery’s specialized program for seniors and older adults provides optimal support for the older population dealing with an addiction to prescription drugs or alcohol.

Learn more about your options with specialized programs that effectively address prescription drug abuse in older adults. Ensure a healthier, safer aging process with informed, compassionate care.

Sources:

1. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-use-in-older-adults-drugfacts
2. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/older-adults

Alcohol abuse is a pervasive issue that cuts across all demographics, yet it poses unique challenges within the LGBTQ+ community.

This group faces a significantly higher risk of alcohol dependency compared to the general population, exacerbated by complex socio-cultural factors and systemic barriers. Understanding these distinct challenges is vital for those in the LGBTQ community dealing with alcohol addiction and their loved ones to provide targeted support and interventions.

Below, we’ll examine the prevalence of alcohol abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals, explore the underlying factors contributing to this issue, discuss the barriers to effective treatment, and highlight the importance of comprehensive care.

Prevalence of LGBTQ+ Alcohol Abuse

Rates of alcohol abuse are notably higher in the LGBTQ+ community. A 2020 survey showed a concerning trend in alcohol use among “sexual minority” adults, with around 21.8% reporting an alcohol use disorder in the past year—nearly double the rate seen in the heterosexual population.¹

Gay and bisexual men as well as lesbian and transgender individuals are more likely to continue heavy drinking into later life and less likely to abstain from alcohol altogether.²

Moreover, when examining specific subgroups within the LGBTQ+ community, the statistics reveal even more pronounced disparities. Particularly at risk are bisexual individuals, who report higher rates of alcohol consumption compared to their lesbian, gay, and heterosexual counterparts.³

While further study is needed, these statistics highlight the importance of understanding the nuanced dynamics that contribute to these high rates of alcohol dependency.

Factors Contributing to LGBTQ+ Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse among LGBTQ+ individuals is not simply a matter of individual choice or biological predisposition—it is deeply rooted in a complex web of societal, cultural, and personal factors. These elements collectively create an environment where substance use can appear as a coping mechanism or a temporary escape from reality.

Understanding these contributing factors is essential for addressing the root causes of alcohol dependency in this community. Here are some key factors:

1. Stigma and Discrimination

Persistent stigmatization and systemic discrimination can lead to chronic stress and mental health challenges, pushing some toward alcohol as a coping mechanism.

2. Minority Stress

Unique pressures experienced by those in marginalized groups, such as internalized homophobia, expectation of rejection, and the daily stress of managing a stigmatized identity, significantly correlate with higher alcohol consumption.

3. Social and Cultural Pressures

Many LGBTQ+ social settings revolve around bars and clubs, establishments that historically provided safe havens. These settings can inadvertently promote higher levels of drinking as part of socializing.

4. Isolation and Rejection

Experiences of rejection from family and friends and the consequent isolation can increase vulnerability to alcohol abuse. For many, alcohol becomes a way to mitigate feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

5. Handling Dual Identities

For LGBTQ+ individuals who also belong to other marginalized groups (racial, ethnic, religious minorities), the stress of handling multiple intersecting identities can complicate personal and social acceptance, increasing reliance on alcohol.

6. Inadequate Support Systems

Lack of supportive counseling and community services that are attuned to the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals can leave many without healthy coping mechanisms, making alcohol an accessible relief.

Common Co-Occurring Disorders in the LGBTQ+ Community

The high rates of alcohol abuse within the LGBTQ+ community are often intertwined with various co-occurring disorders. These mental health challenges can both contribute to and exacerbate substance use, creating a complex cycle that is difficult to break.

Here are some co-occurring disorders that may be observed at higher rates among LGBTQ+ individuals struggling with alcohol dependency:

• Mental Health Disorders: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues are significantly more prevalent among LGBTQ+ individuals compared to the general population. These conditions can drive alcohol use as a form of self-medication to temporarily alleviate mental distress.⁴
• Substance Use Disorders: Beyond alcohol, there is a higher propensity for the use of other substances, such as tobacco, cannabis, and amphetamines, among LGBTQ+ people. This poly-substance use can complicate treatment and recovery processes.³
• Trauma and PTSD: Many LGBTQ+ individuals have experienced traumatic events, including physical and emotional abuse, hate crimes, and severe discrimination. The incidence of PTSD in this community is high, and alcohol often becomes a coping mechanism to manage trauma-related symptoms.⁵
• Eating Disorders: Eating disorders, which often co-occur with alcohol abuse, are more commonly observed among sexual and gender minorities. Both conditions are frequently utilized as methods to exert control and manage underlying issues of body image and self-esteem.⁶

Embrace Healing and Hope at Lumina Recovery

At Lumina Recovery, we understand that the journey to overcome alcohol addiction is deeply personal and often complex, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. We are committed to offering welcoming, inclusive alcohol addiction treatment programs where all individuals can find the support they need to heal and thrive.

Recognizing the critical intersection between alcohol abuse and mental health, our dual diagnosis program is designed to address co-occurring disorders, providing comprehensive treatment that considers all aspects of an individual’s well-being.

Our approach is holistic and tailored to each person’s unique circumstances. At Lumina Recovery, you will find a team of compassionate professionals dedicated to supporting you every step of the way, from initial assessment through to aftercare planning.

We invite you to contact us to learn more about how our addiction treatment programs can help you or your loved ones start the path to recovery in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental setting.

Together, we can work towards a healthier, sober future where you feel empowered to live your best life.

Sources:

1.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871622001703?via%3Dihub
2. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2024/additional-considerations/substance-use
3. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/substance-use-suds-in-lgbtq-populations
4. https://mhanational.org/issues/lgbtq-communities-and-mental-health
5. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treat/specific/trauma_discrimination_lgbtq.asp
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8060208/

Talking to a parent about their substance use disorder is a courageous step. It’s a conversation filled with emotional complexity and requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding. Lumina Recovery has crafted a guide for adult children on how to deal with addict parents and how to approach this delicate topic.

Supporting the Struggling Parent

When an adult child steps in to help a parent struggling with addiction, it often involves a significant role reversal where the children of addicted parents do the parenting. This role reversal can be emotionally complex and challenging as you navigate the shift from being cared for to providing care. Here’s how to handle this delicate transition with grace and effectiveness.

Accept Your Role

Recognize that your role is to support your parent and not to control them. You are there to assist your parent in acknowledging their drug abuse and encouraging them to seek help. It is important to maintain respect for their autonomy and avoid patronizing or infantilizing them. This balance helps preserve their dignity and your relationship long-term.

Maintain Respect and Compassion

Even though you are taking on a caretaker role, remember that your parent is an adult with their own life experiences. Approach them with the respect and compassion they deserve. This involves listening to their feelings, acknowledging their struggles, and affirming their worth beyond their addiction.

Provide Informed Support

As you take on this role, equip yourself with knowledge. Understanding the specifics of addiction and recovery options allows you to offer informed support. This might include researching treatment programs, understanding potential withdrawal symptoms, and knowing what recovery resources are available.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is one of many organizations that have resources for families and their loved ones.

Encourage Professional Help

Encouraging a parent addicted to drugs to see a professional can sometimes be met with resistance. Frame this suggestion positively, emphasizing how seeking help is a sign of strength and a step towards regaining control over their life. Offer to help make appointments or accompany them if they feel apprehensive.

Communicate Clearly and Gently

Clear communication is crucial. Discuss your concerns without making accusations or using confrontational language. Focus on how their behavior affects you and why you believe seeking help is crucial. For instance, you might say, “I’m worried about your health and how it’s affecting us. I think it could be helpful to talk to someone who understands and can provide the right support.”

Set and Enforce Boundaries

Establishing boundaries is essential for your well-being and effectiveness in this new role. Clearly articulate what behaviors you can accept and what you cannot tolerate. Enforcing these boundaries can be difficult but is necessary to maintain a healthy dynamic and to protect your own mental and emotional health.

Offer Ongoing Support

Show that your involvement isn’t just about managing the addiction, but about genuinely caring for their well-being. Regularly check in on them, spend quality time together, and show appreciation for their efforts. Your ongoing support can be a crucial factor in their willingness to continue treatment and recovery.

Seeking Support Beyond the Home

Seeking external help is often a critical step in effectively managing a drug-addicted parent. By involving professionals and outside resources, you can enhance the support system for your parent and alleviate some of the burden on yourself. Here’s how to navigate finding and utilizing outside help.

Explore treatment options. Start by researching the different types of addiction treatment options available for drugs or alcohol. These can range from detox programs and inpatient rehabilitation centers to outpatient therapy and support groups. Understand the benefits of each type of treatment and consider what might be the best fit for your parent’s needs and circumstances.

Consult addiction professionals. This includes addiction counselors, therapists, or medical professionals who specialize in addiction treatment. These experts can provide valuable insights into your parent’s condition and recommend appropriate treatment paths. They can also help you understand what to expect during the recovery process and how best to support your parent.

Utilize support groups. Support groups offer a community of individuals who understand what it’s like to have a loved one battling addiction. These groups provide both emotional support and practical advice on handling the challenges you and your parents face. Encouraging your parent to join a peer support group like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can also be beneficial, as it connects them with others who are in similar situations.

Engage in family therapy. Addiction affects not just the addicted person but the entire family. Engaging in family therapy can help address these dynamics. It provides a safe space for all family members to express their feelings, improve communication, and learn strategies to support each other. Family therapy can also help heal relationships damaged by the behaviors associated with addiction.

Utilize telehealth services. If access to in-person treatment is limited, consider telehealth services. Many therapists and support groups offer virtual sessions, which can provide flexible and accessible support for your parent. This can be particularly useful in maintaining continuity of care and support, especially if physical or logistical barriers exist.

Regular follow-up. Once your parent has started receiving external help, regular follow-up is crucial. Stay involved in their treatment process as much as possible and appropriate. Regular check-ins can ensure that your parent remains committed to recovery and that any adjustments to their treatment plan are made promptly.

Seek Support for Your Parent With Lumina Recovery

​​Talking to a parent about their addiction is challenging but showing your concern is a powerful act of love. It can be the nudge they need to start their journey toward recovery. By approaching the conversation with preparedness, empathy, and clear communication, you can make a positive impact in their life.

Lumina Recovery provides family therapy and specialized programs for seniors and older adults to help you and your family overcome the hurdle of addiction.

Reach out for professional help today and take a crucial step towards healing and recovery for your family.

Have you ever wondered how to talk to someone about their drinking habits? When a family member or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD), starting a conversation about it can feel overwhelming.

You may worry about saying the wrong thing or how they might react. There are simple steps one can follow to approach these crucial conversations with empathy, respect, and hope.

Preparing for the Conversation

Opening a dialogue or intervention about alcohol misuse with a loved one is a significant step that requires thoughtful preparation. The way you prepare can greatly influence the outcome of the conversation. Here are steps to help you get ready:

Choose the right time and place. It’s essential to have a conversation about a loved one’s drinking problem when they are sober and you both have enough time to talk without being rushed. Select a private, comfortable setting where you won’t be interrupted, ensuring the environment feels safe and non-threatening.

Educate yourself on alcohol abuse. Understanding the challenges and complexities of alcohol abuse can make you more empathetic and informed. Research the emotional, psychological, and physical signs of alcohol dependency, and familiarize yourself with the language of addiction and recovery. Knowledge about the subject will help you avoid misconceptions and stereotypes, fostering a more supportive dialogue.

Plan your message carefully. Reflect on what you wish to convey. Writing down your thoughts can be helpful. Focus on expressing concern and love, rather than blame or anger. Prepare to discuss specific instances where the alcohol abuse has had a visible impact, but do so without accusation. This preparation helps in keeping the conversation constructive.

Identify support options. Research local resources, support groups, and professional help options in advance. If they’re open to seeking support, knowing where to turn can make the next steps clearer and more manageable for both of you.

Set realistic expectations. Understand that one conversation may not lead to immediate change. Recovery is a journey, and your loved one’s readiness to engage with the issue may take time. Setting realistic expectations can help you approach the conversation with patience and resilience, prepared to offer ongoing support.

Having the Conversation

The moment has come to talk to your loved one about their alcohol abuse. How you conduct this conversation can significantly impact its effectiveness and their openness to your concerns. Follow these guidelines for a compassionate and constructive exchange:

1. Start With Empathy and Concern

Begin the conversation from a place of love and concern, not criticism. “I’ve noticed some changes in your behavior that worry me because I care about you so much.” This approach emphasizes your concern for their well-being rather than placing blame.

2. Use “I” Statements

To avoid sounding accusatory, focus on expressing how their behavior affects you and your feelings. “I feel worried when I see you have drinks each day,” rather than “You’re always continuing to drink.” This helps in keeping defensive barriers low.

3. Be Specific About Your Observations

Cite specific instances where their drinking has led to problems or changes in their behavior, health, or relationships. This specificity can help make the issue more tangible and less dismissible. “I noticed you’ve been missing a lot of work lately and seem really tired all the time.”

4. Listen Actively

This conversation is as much about listening as it is about talking. Allow them to share their perspective, feelings, and fears. Validate their feelings without endorsing harmful behaviors. Active listening can foster a sense of understanding and empathy, creating a safer space for them to open up.

5. Offer Support, Not Ultimatums

Make it clear that you’re there to support them through their journey to recovery, not to judge or control them. Offer specific ways you can help, like accompanying them to doctor’s appointments or looking for alcohol addiction treatment options together. “I’m here for you, and I want to help you through this.”

6. Avoid Arguing or Getting Defensive

If the conversation becomes heated or if they respond defensively, strive to remain calm and composed. Remember, your goal is to open a dialogue, not to win an argument. If it’s not the right time, it’s okay to pause the conversation and revisit it later.

7. Discuss Next Steps Gently

If they’re open to it, gently discuss possible next steps, such as visiting a healthcare professional for an assessment or attending a support group meeting. Emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

8. Express Unconditional Love and Hope

Reiterate your unconditional love and belief in their ability to overcome this challenge. Hope can be a powerful motivator in recovery. “I believe in you and your strength to get through this, and I’ll be with you every step of the way.”

After the Conversation

The initial conversation about alcohol abuse is essential, but the journey doesn’t end there. Here’s how you can continue to support your loved one and yourself in the aftermath:

• Maintain open communication. Keep the lines of communication open and continue to check in with your loved one These shouldn’t always be check-ins about their alcohol use but also about how they’re feeling generally. This ongoing dialogue reinforces your support and concern.
• Encourage professional help. If your loved one showed openness to seeking help, gently encourage them to take the next step. Offer to help research therapists, treatment facilities, alcohol treatment, or support group If they’re willing, accompany them to appointments for moral support.
• Support healthy habits. Encourage activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, such as exercising together, cooking nutritious meals, or exploring new hobbies that avoid alcohol. Fostering a positive alcohol-free environment can support their recovery efforts.
• Be patient and realistic. Understand that recovery is a process that often includes setbacks. It’s important to be patient and to manage your expectations. Celebrate small victories and remain supportive through challenges.
• Learn about relapse prevention. Educate yourself on the signs of relapse and what to do if it happens. Being prepared can help you respond effectively and compassionately, should the need arise.
• Set and respect boundaries. Continue to maintain healthy boundaries to protect your well-being and mental health, and to support your loved one’s recovery. Be clear about what behaviors you cannot tolerate and the consequences of those behaviors. It’s crucial for your health and their accountability.
• Foster a positive outlook. While acknowledging the realities of addiction, maintain a hopeful outlook on your loved one’s ability to recover. Your belief in their potential can inspire and motivate them.

Get Help Discussing Alcohol Abuse With Lumina Recovery

Talking to a loved one about alcohol abuse and stopping drinking is never easy, but it’s a crucial step towards their recovery. There are resources and support systems available for both you and your loved one.

Lumina Recovery has group therapy and family therapy as well as other therapy options to help guide these important conversations. By approaching the conversation with empathy, preparation, and hope, you can make a significant difference in their life.

Reach out to Lumina Recovery today for comprehensive support in navigating conversations about alcohol abuse and taking the first step toward healing.