Older individuals are more likely to experience multiple co-occurring conditions affecting their mental and physical health, increasing their risk of developing addictive behaviors. Adults 65 and older may struggle to cope with a diagnosis of substance use disorder (SUD) or dual diagnosis. Some of the most common forms of SUD in seniors include alcohol use disorder (AUD) and addiction to prescription medications. Treatment must address all factors impacting mental health and sobriety. Driftwood Recovery provides tailored treatment for seniors experiencing SUD.
A Holistic Approach to Treatment for Seniors at Driftwood Recovery
Older adults have a higher risk of experiencing SUD. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Aging could possibly lead to social and physical changes that may increase vulnerability to substance misuse.” In addition, “older adults typically metabolize substances more slowly, and their brains can be more sensitive to drugs.” Seniors often have a more difficult time locating and receiving treatment for substance use disorder.
A whole-person approach to client care allows clinicians to directly address any symptoms or underlying issues impacting seniors with SUD. Tailored plans and comprehensive programs provide flexibility to increase the effectiveness of treatment. Driftwood Recovery offers personalized treatments and holistic services to ensure older adults receive the support they need to heal from the effects of SUD.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction and Mental Health Issues in Seniors
Older adults may have difficulty recognizing the warning signs of addiction or mental health disorders. Often, family members or friends are the first to spot symptoms and recommend professional interventions. Being able to recognize the symptoms of mental health issues or addiction improves treatment outcomes by increasing the likelihood of individuals receiving care earlier.
Some of the most common signs of addictive behaviors or mental health disorders in individuals over 65 include:
- Increased social isolation
- Decreased interest in hobbies or activities
- Mood swings, including increased sadness and irritability
- Confusion, memory issues, and difficulty focusing
- Neglect of personal hygiene
- Unexplained physical health issues, including nausea, headaches, and muscle pain without known cause
- Increased use of prescription medications
- Drinking alcohol to address symptoms of mental or physical health issues (e.g., individuals with insomnia drinking to fall asleep)
- Unusual spending habits leading to financial instability
- Sleep disturbances
- Changes in appetite
- Paranoid thoughts or behavior
- Increased anxiety
- Repeated depressive episodes
- Frequent doctor visits or visiting multiple doctors to refill the same medication prescription
Symptoms of mental health disorders may overlap with typical age-related changes in cognition and physical health. Driftwood Recovery encourages individuals to seek a clinical diagnosis from a medical professional.
The Driftwood Recovery Experience: Unique Residential Treatment for Seniors
Seniors benefit from residential treatment programs that provide additional access to medical supervision, social support, and medication management. Many older adults have multiple co-occurring health issues impacting their psychological and physical health. Treatment for seniors addresses all current conditions and underlying causes.
Driftwood Recovery ensures older adults access services supporting their safety and wellness. The clinical team collaborates with clients, families, and primary care providers to ensure older individuals in treatment receive the most appropriate care. Driftwood Recovery also offers referrals to outside professionals as needed to address any unique health issues affecting seniors in residential treatment.
We Offer Comprehensive Treatment for Seniors at Driftwood Recovery
Comprehensive treatment programs at Driftwood Recovery provide seniors with the resources, information, and skills they need to manage their condition. Recovering from substance abuse or mental health disorders often requires multiple levels of care. Driftwood Recovery offers tailored residential and outpatient services to address each client’s medical needs and personal preferences. In addition, the clinical team provides aftercare planning to prepare seniors for ongoing recovery outside of structured care.
Older adults experiencing SUD or dual diagnosis may benefit from participating in the following:
- Residential treatment programs
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs)
- Community integration programs (CIPs)
Programs offer social support and essential services for high-risk seniors. The low clinician-to-client ratio and comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment at Driftwood Recovery allow older adults to recover from chronic substance abuse or mental health disorders in a safe and comfortable environment. Programs also provide clients with access to holistic modalities for addressing chronic pain or other medical conditions affecting their overall health and wellness. The compassionate care team educates seniors on the realities of addiction recovery and helps them navigate the various treatment options.
Relapse Prevention and Long-Term Recovery for Seniors
Skill development and relapse prevention are essential for older adults. Addressing the underlying causes of addiction reduces the risk of relapse and improves the quality of life for older adults recovering from SUD and dual diagnosis.
Relapse prevention strategies for seniors with SUD often involve the following:
- Building a support network of peers, family, and recovery experts
- Engaging in structured therapy or other support services
- Medication management
- Routine medical check-ups
- Identifying and addressing triggers
- Practicing self-care by developing new hobbies or other enjoyable activities
- Stress management
- Utilizing community-based resources
Older adults also benefit from psychoeducation. Learning more about the effects of addiction and unmanaged mental health issues can motivate some people to continue moving forward in their recovery after completing rehabilitation.
Family Involvement and Support to Improve Treatment for Seniors
Engaging family members in the treatment process adds another layer of support and accountability for older adults. Some high-risk seniors may live with loved ones. Educating the entire family and using therapeutic tools to strengthen relationships increases the effectiveness of rehabilitation and reduces the risk of relapse.
Family involvement in treatment and aftercare significantly reduces the risk of relapse by doing the following:
- Providing emotional support
- Monitoring health through frequent wellness checks
- Assisting with medication management
- Encouraging participation in counseling or other support services
- Creating a safe and substance-free home environment
- Reducing feelings of isolation
- Promoting independence and reinforcing healthy behaviors
Clinicians collaborate closely with clients and their loved ones to ensure the entire family receives education and support during recovery. Family participation in treatment improves outcomes for seniors in recovery.
Life Beyond Treatment: Driftwood Recovery’s Aftercare and Community Integration for Seniors
Driftwood Recovery is a premier rehabilitation facility offering comprehensive and compassionate care for older adults diagnosed with SUD and co-occurring mental health issues. The clinical team treats senior addiction and dual diagnosis using innovative techniques and evidence-based therapies. We give clients and their loved ones the resources to prepare for successful recovery and life after treatment. Residential and outpatient programs offer aftercare planning to ensure a smooth transition from structured treatment to continuing care. Driftwood Recovery uses community integration programs and ongoing alumni services to help clients gain confidence in their ability to maintain sobriety independently.
Older adults have an increased risk of developing substance use and mental health disorders. Driftwood Recovery treats seniors using personalized treatment plans and integrative care. To learn more about our services and programs, call our office today at (512) 759-8330.
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