Alcohol abuse disorder is a global concern, and Canada has a fair share of people struggling with it. While Canadians have a reputation for drinking moderately, things changed in 2021.
Surveys showed that 5.1 million people (15.6% of Canadians aged over 12) accepted that they engaged in heavy drinking. Men had more than five drinks, and women had more than four at least once a month in the past year. The numbers witnessed a significant spurt in 2022, with almost 20% of Canadians indulging in heavy drinking.
Alcoholism is a bigger challenge for a country like Canada because of its large share of an aging population. Seniors are the fastest-growing demographic in the country, projected to constitute a quarter of the population by 2051.
While substance abuse is commonly linked with younger demographics, addiction among seniors is a harsh reality. Drinking too much as a senior can have dire health implications for individuals. Even worse, it can increase the country's healthcare burden.
Fortunately, seniors can deal with alcohol addiction just like anyone else. Yet the journey can be harder and longer for them. Alcohol addiction among the elderly poses unique challenges people tend to overlook. In this article, we will examine the difficulties of dealing with alcohol addiction as a senior and provide insights into possible solutions.
Challenge #1: Health Complications
The World Health Organization notes that alcohol is responsible for 5.1% of the global burden of disease and injury. It can increase the risk of conditions such as liver disease, hypertension, diabetes and cognitive decline. Additionally, it elevates the risk of premature mortality among the 15-49 age group, leading to 10% of all deaths among these individuals.
As individuals age, the probability of alcohol-related diseases and mortality increases. The aging body is more susceptible to adverse effects, and chronic consumption exacerbates existing health conditions common among seniors. Moreover, alcoholic drinks can interact adversely with medications prescribed for age-related ailments.
These health complications pose a significant challenge for the elderly population, even when battling addiction recovery. They may require specialized medical care to address their addiction and associated health issues effectively.
Challenge #2: Complex Interplay of Mental Health Issues
Besides the physical health complications, alcohol addiction among seniors often increases the risk of mental health issues. The worst part is that these co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety and unresolved trauma, are often underdiagnosed and undertreated in older adults. In many cases, it leads to a cycle of self-medication with alcohol.
Age-related cognitive decline can complicate the assessment and management of mental health issues in older adults with alcohol addiction. The best solution is to take a holistic approach to treatment, as it addresses both substance abuse and underlying mental health concerns. The approach works with specialized interventions and integrated care models tailored to the complexities of aging.
Challenge #3: Practical Barriers to Accessing Treatment
Another challenge for the elderly seeking addiction treatment is the practical barriers to accessing it. As of now, healthcare facilities are inadequate in Canada, with ERs facing intense pressure due to a lack of resources. The same situation prevails in the rehab space because the country has fewer facilities than it requires.
States like Ontario struggle even more as they are highly populated. Consider Ottawa, the capital of Canada and a densely populated city, as an example. The 2021 census showed that 30% of this city's population was over the age of 55. That makes it a rapidly aging city where healthcare facilities may not be easily available to seniors, including those with addiction problems.
Further, several practical barriers may hinder their access to addiction treatment and support services. These include mobility issues, transportation challenges and limited specialized geriatric addiction programs. Further, digital literacy barriers may keep them from accessing online resources and telehealth services.
According to the Canadian Centre for Addictions, substance abuse is not just a problem in the younger population. It is a big issue in the elderly, making it crucial for providers to address their needs. An alternative finding favor in the U.S. is non-12 step drug rehab, which doesn't focus on the concept of addiction as an incurable disease.
Seniors can regain control and experience long-term recovery with access to timely and appropriate care. Transportation services, age-friendly treatment facilities and outreach programs specifically designed to accommodate the needs of the elderly can make all the difference.
Challenge #4: Limited Support Networks
Studies highlight the significance of the human connection as a treatment factor for addiction. Individuals getting peer support during the journey have better chances of recovery in the long run. Moreover, it curbs the possibility of a relapse.
However, seniors have limited support networks. Unlike younger people, they do not have extensive social circles and familial support systems. At times, they even struggle with social isolation.
These factors may exacerbate alcohol addiction as aging individuals might use alcohol as a coping mechanism for loneliness, anxiety, or depression. Moreover, the social stigma surrounding substance abuse in the elderly may keep them from seeking help or discussing their struggles openly.
Only tailored interventions that consider the unique social circumstances of seniors can help them deal with alcohol addiction.
Challenge #5: Financial Constraints
According to a 2022 survey, more than half of Canadians past the age of 60 continue to be in the workforce by necessity, not choice. They do it to combat the high cost of living in the country. Moreover, pension ineligibility and lack of retirement planning land them in financial trouble after retiring.
Seniors on fixed incomes may struggle with financial constraints that keep them from accessing quality addiction treatment. The cost of rehabilitation programs, medication and counseling sessions can be prohibitive for individuals living on limited retirement funds.
The expense of treatment of concurrent health issues further strains their financial resources. Addressing alcohol addiction in the aging demographic requires affordable treatment options and financial assistance programs according to specific needs.
In conclusion, alcohol addiction in seniors can be challenging beyond the health risks it poses. The bigger concern is that treatment may not be easily accessible and affordable for them. Healthcare professionals, policymakers and communities need to understand and address these challenges to support seniors in overcoming alcohol addiction and improve their overall quality of life.