When people picture what someone struggling with substance addiction looks like, they may picture someone younger, whom they imagine got involved with drugs or alcohol in a party scene. However, while addiction can affect anyone, from any age or walk of life, you may be surprised to learn that a very common age group that is affected by substance abuse is midlife adults.

There are several reasons why older adults are more susceptible to drug and alcohol addiction.

Why Substance Addiction Affects Older Adults

Retirement

While retirement is a chapter of life most people look forward to, adults who no longer have to go to work each day have a lot of free time on their hands. If they don’t find healthy ways of filling that time, they can turn to alcohol or drugs instead. Before long, what began as a few cocktails during a daily happy hour can spiral into full-blown addiction.

Physical Decline

Older adults often find themselves struggling with physical health issues, such as joint pain and arthritis. They may be prescribed medications by their doctor, but these can become abused over time if they do not take them as ordered. Older adults may also self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.

Mental Decline

Midlife and older adults also experience more mental decline as they age. Especially if they care for themselves, a decline in memory may cause adults to forget they took medications already and end up taking them twice — this misuse can quickly lead to addiction.

Addiction Treatment for Midlife Adults

Silver Ridge is a unique rehabilitation center in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville. Our services are tailored to meet the needs of established, midlife adults age 35 and up who are struggling with drug addiction or alcohol addiction.

Contact us today to get the help you need.