Substance Abuse Issues for Elderly and Homebound People in South Florida – Feingold Home Health Services

Opioid, Stimulant, and Alcohol Abuse is on the Rise

The stress and uncertainty of COVID-19 has led to an increased demand for psychological services across the country, and consequently there are more people suffering from anxiety and depression. Many of these individuals don’t reach out for psychological help and turn to self medicate with substances that are addictive, which worsens their health and ability to function. Older adults may be more likely to experience mood disorders, lung and heart problems, or memory issues. Drugs can worsen these conditions, exacerbating the negative health consequences of substance use.

People who are homebound are especially vulnerable to these pitfalls because they often don’t have someone to listen to their thoughts and concerns.

We must always remember that substance abuse and addition are illnesses, not weaknesses, and should be treated as early as possible to be successful. Sometimes it’s hard to think of “Grandma or Grandpa” or “Uncle Bill” as having a drug problem but it happens far more often than people think. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, almost one million people who are 65 or older have issues with substance abuse.

Warning Signs:

Warning signs for any substance abuse situation can be subtle or they may be profound. Sudden changes in attitude or behavior, or changes in sleep habits can be cause for concern. People who are taking prescription medications may ask to refill their supplies before they are due. Everyone needs to be careful about incorrectly interpreting certain signs, such a slurred speech because it could mean the person has ingested drugs or alcohol – or it may be a stroke. When in doubt call a doctor or if it is serious call 911.

Feingold Home Health Care Nurses and Aides are trained to be observant on all levels of human health, from nutritional issues to side effects from medications to mental and emotional distress.

If you have concerns about someone you love who lives alone we are here to help. A phone call to 561-210-9096 will put you in touch with someone to answer your questions and discuss financial concerns and solutions.