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Drug Usage Data Reveals Worrisome Trend Among Older Adults
Data from national surveys reveal a disturbing trend for 50- to 59-year-olds. The number of those reporting past-month abuse of illicit drugs -- including the nonmedical use of prescription drugs -- more than doubled from 2002 to 2010, going from 907,000 to about 2.4 million, or from 2.7% to 5.8% in this population. Among those 65 and older, 414,000 used illicit drugs in 2010.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) at the National Institutes of Health, the numbers of older substance abusers could continue to rise, due to the aging of the baby boomers, who were more likely than previous generations to have used illicit drugs in their youth.
Medications for a variety of conditions can help older adults maintain health and function, and most older adults take their medications as prescribed. At the same time, abuse of prescription medications-such as painkillers and depressants-and illicit drugs --such as marijuana and cocaine -- can be especially harmful for older adults because aging changes how the body and brain handle such substances.How Drugs Affect Older Bodies
"As people get older, it is more difficult for their bodies to absorb and break down medications and drugs," says Dr. Nora Volkow, director of NIDA. "Abusing these substances can worsen age-related health conditions, cause injuries and lead to addiction."Although substance abuse among older adults is preventable and treatable, many older adults may not get the help they need because some common warning signs of abuse -- such as sleep problems, falls, and depression -- can also be signs of other health conditions.
The new topic on NIHSeniorHealth provides tips on behaviors to watch for and appropriate steps to take if a substance abuse problem is suspected. "This topic is an excellent, easy-to-understand overview of a growing problem," says Volkow. "It's a must-read for anyone concerned about substance abuse in themselves, an older relative or friend."Info: Prescription and Illicit Drug Abuse is the latest topic to appear on NIH SeniorHealth www.nihseniorhealth.gov
6/6/12 3:28 PMPrint This Story | Contact the Editor
Reprinted from Aging News Alert http://www.cdpublications.com/ana/
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