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A Deadly Combination
The skyrocketing numbers of overdose deaths among the senior population aren’t just attributed to fentanyl exposure alone, however. Rather, it’s a potent and lethal combination of fentanyl and stimulants such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin that’s claiming elders’ lives of elders.
The statistics are all the more alarming in that it’s a surge that’s occurred over a span of just eight years. This is considered to be the fourth wave of the opioid epidemic and it no longer affects mostly young people.
Some experts also warn that older adults are at increased risk because seniors are more likely to take multiple prescription medications, which can make an overdose even more likely, and in many cases, more lethal.
An Underrecognized Opioid Epidemic in Older Adults
What can be done to stop this deadly wave? For one, physicians are being urged to spend time educating parents and their caregivers regarding safe pain management practices, the risk of prescription medication addiction and the importance of overdose prevention.
Until now, data related to older adults have largely not been included in overdose studies. The current findings derive from important new data gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
One of the growing concerns is that this age group is already at risk because they frequently manage chronic illnesses, take various medications and typically metabolize these drugs more slowly as they get older.
As more and more Americans enter this high-risk age group, medical specialists should check for polysubstance use, practice caution when prescribing opioids to older adults, offer naloxone education and even screen these patients for substance exposures that may present complications.
Specialists also underscore the need for regular reviews of medications to avoid dangerous combinations. These data clearly illustrate that opioids are a problem for all communities and age groups, that no population is immune from addiction and overdose and we still have a long way to go in this fight.
Getting Help for Seniors with Fentanyl Addiction
If you or a senior you love is at risk for drug addiction, age-specific care can make recovery possible. Many reputable rehab centers offer programs tailored to older adults and are often covered by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance.
Use Rehab.com’s nationwide directory to compare accredited treatment providers in your area, review rehab ratings or explore programs that specialize in senior addiction care. You can also call
800-985-8516
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for immediate support.
