The silent struggle of older adults with substance use disorders (SUD) often leads to devastating consequences, including increased suicide risk. A senior might develop an SUD later in life from many factors, such as chronic pain or the loss of a loved one. In this article, we will highlight the risks of SUD and suicide in older adults and how to recognize a problem in yourself or someone you love.
SUMMARY: Depression and anxiety in older adults stem from factors like caregiver burden, chronic health conditions, cognitive decline, and isolation. Rising senior suicide rates, especially among men aged 55 and older, highlight significant concerns, with firearm-related suicides more prevalent in men and complex mental health issues exacerbated by substance misuse. Hanley Center offers specialized care addressing these challenges for improved mental and emotional well-being in older adults.
Depression & Anxiety among Older Adults
Creating or worsening depression or anxiety in older adults can be influenced by various factors. Here are ten key contributors.
1. Caregiver burden: Taking care of a sick spouse or family member can be emotionally draining.
2. Chronic health conditions: Persistent pain and illnesses can significantly impact mental health.
3. Cognitive decline: Conditions like dementia can exacerbate anxiety and depression.
4. Decline in physical abilities: Reduced mobility and independence can lead to feelings of helplessness.
5. Financial stress: Job loss or retirement often causes financial insecurity and anxiety.
6. Isolation: Limited social interaction and loneliness are major risk factors.
7. Lack of support: Insufficient family or community support can leave older adults feeling abandoned and anxious.
8. Loss of a spouse: Bereavement can trigger severe depression.
9. Medication side effects: Certain drugs may contribute to mood changes.
10. Retirement: Sudden lifestyle changes can cause a sense of purposelessness.
“One of the biggest indicators of mental wellbeing… is financial stability, employment, the ability to live and have your basic needs met. What we are seeing right now, especially among older adults and people who live on a fixed income, is the housing crisis is a ripple effect. It’s putting people in vulnerable situation and it’s displacing people. The cost of living has drastically increased, it’s incredibly difficult to find affordable housing.” Alli Jimenez, Hanley Foundation’s Vice President of Program Development.
From Decline of Self-Care to Self-Harm
For older adults, substance misuse can start with neglecting routine self-care, such as skipping meals or forgetting medications. Over time, this neglect may escalate as substances like alcohol or prescription drugs increasingly dominate their daily lives. The decline in self-care can lead to dangerous behaviors, either through overdose or risky actions under the influence, culminating in self-harm. Intentional or not, this progression underscores the urgent need for early intervention and support.
Suicide and Seniors
Suicide rates among older adults are rising, particularly among men, according to a CDC report. Between 2001 and 2021, suicide rates significantly increased for men aged 55 to 74 and women aged 55 to 84. Men aged 85 and older had the highest suicide rate at 55.7 per 100,000. Firearm-related suicides were most common among older men, while women aged 55–64 had the highest rates of firearm-, poisoning-, and suffocation-related suicides in 2021. Provisional 2022 data indicates nearly 53% of the record 49,449 suicide deaths in the U.S. were among individuals aged 45 and older. Suicide rates increased nearly 7% for those aged 45 to 64 and over 8% for those aged 65 and older. Among older men, firearms were the leading method of suicide, with rates increasing with age. For women, both firearm- and poisoning-related suicides were highest among those aged 55 to 64, but rates declined with age.
Opioid and Benzodiazepine Misuse Tied to Suicide
Previous studies have connected prescription medicine usage to suicidal ideation in the general adult population. However, the specific links between opioid or benzodiazepine addiction and suicide ideation in older persons have not been adequately examined until now. Using data from the 2015-2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, this study discovered that abuse of prescription opioids and benzodiazepines significantly elevated the likelihood of suicidal ideation in older persons.
Suicide’s Warning Signs
Identifying warning signs for suicide attempts among older adults is crucial for timely intervention and support. Here are ten key indicators.
- Decline in physical health or chronic pain
- Expressions of hopelessness or helplessness
- Giving away prized possessions
- Increased use of alcohol or drugs
- Loss of interest in personal care or hygiene
- Severe anxiety or agitation
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Sudden improvement in mood after a period of depression
- Talking about death or suicide
- Withdrawal from social activities and relationships
Learn to Spot the Warning Signs of Suicide Through QPR Training
Hanley Foundation offers free, virtual suicide prevention trainings through our Zero Suicide Initiative to learn the warning signs of suicide by learning to “Question, Persuade, and Refer” click here to learn more and register.
Getting Help from for Older Adults at Hanley Center
At Hanley Center, personalized treatment for older adults addresses the unique challenges they face, offering dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. This comprehensive approach ensures that both issues are treated simultaneously, enhancing recovery outcomes. Family support is integral, providing education and involvement to strengthen the support system. Continuing care services ensure long-term recovery by offering ongoing therapy, medical check-ups, and relapse prevention strategies. Specialized treatment for aging issues is essential, as older adults may face distinct physical, emotional, and social challenges. Hanley Center’s tailored programs cater to these needs, promoting healthier, more fulfilling lives for older adults.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger reach out to 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, you can call or text 988 to speak with some one or visit their website 988lifeline.org.
Hanley Foundation’s Hanley Center has been helping people all over the country achieve wellness for more than 40 years. In addition to providing age- and gender-specific treatment for substance use and co-occurring disorders, Hanley offers a boutique residential mental health program for adults. For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1033.
