Drug abuse, whether prescription or illicit drugs, can have serious consequences, particularly for older adults. While there are obviously luxury drug rehab centers available to those struggling from addiction, it is always best to focus on prevention. However, there are many different reasons why people abuse drugs and become addicted to them. It’s not the end of the world though if people do because addicted to drugs, as there are a few things that people can to help them with their addiction. Some people are capable of overcoming their addiction with just the help and support of their friends. Whilst others might need to go to an inpatient facility (if this is something which you are interested in finding out more about then you can click here). People can become addicted to drugs for many reasons though. These reasons need to be taken into account when considering how to best prevent drug abuse. Family members, friends, pharmacists, and health care providers can all be involved in preventing drug abuse among older adults.
There are steps that you as a patient can take to prevent abuse of prescription medications and its consequences.
When visiting the doctor or pharmacist, bring along all prescription and over-the-counter medicines that you take — or a list of the medicines and their dosages (how much you take and how often). Your doctor can make sure your medicines are right for you and make changes if necessary.
Always follow medication directions carefully.
Only use the medication for its prescribed purpose.
Do not crush or break pills.
Ask how the medication will affect driving and other daily activities.
Do not use other people’s prescription medications, and do not share yours.
Do not stop taking a medicine on your own. Talk to your doctor if you are having side effects or other problems.
Learn about the medicine’s possible interactions with alcohol and other prescription and over-the-counter medicines, and follow your doctor’s instructions to avoid these interactions.
Answer honestly if a doctor or other health care professional asks you about other drug or alcohol use. Without that information, your doctor may not be able to provide you with the best care. Also, if you have a substance problem, he or she can help you find the right treatment to prevent more serious problems from developing, including addiction.
Preventing illicit drug use in older adults requires first knowing what contributes to it. For people of all ages, an individual’s biology (including their genetics) and the environment, as well as how the two act together, determine a person’s vulnerability to drug abuse and addiction — or can protect against it. For example, being exposed to drugs of abuse in youth, living in a community where drug use is prevalent, having untreated mental disorders, such as depression, or dealing with difficult transition periods such as retirement or loss of a spouse can all make an older adult more vulnerable to drug abuse. There are solutions in place for those who have experienced a wake-up call in their battle with drug abuse and who are now seeking drug rehab using the facilities and services of rehabilitation centers.
Prevention efforts must focus on gaining a better understanding of the factors that promote illicit drug use in older adults. Prevention also includes finding ways to stop drug use before it worsens and leads to health problems, including addiction. Family members can play an important role by being aware of an older relative’s well-being and possible drug abuse, and stepping in to help at an early stage or organising a trip to The Avante Ibogaine Institute, if necessary. Doctors should ask their older patients about potential drug abuse and make referrals as needed.
