Now that the fascination with Lindsay and Mel is slowly dying down and we realize that they are not the only suffering alcoholics and addicts in our country then let's all take a deep breath and redirect some of our attention here.
If the righteous indignation that accompanied the reaction to an addict out of control was so intense, I wonder if America can muster the same passion, vitality and commitment for the newest population of addicts and alcoholics in the country; our Moms, Dads, grandparents, and the fastest growing population of addicts and alcoholics in our country; seniors.
We have become a country in denial; one that would rather turn our head to Page Six then set up a plan of action for the people who raised us, gave their lives for us to live in a better place and those facing a disposable life of chronic illness.
It is high time we turn our head from Lindsay and Mel and notice that because our physicians are writing scripts, caregivers are not paying attention as our senior population are turning to alcohol, opiates and benzodiazepines in light of the losses they face personally and socially in their lives.
It is time to find the paparazzi and ask them why the spotlight isn’t on the people that many of us thought were a celebrity in our lives, our parents who cared for us and wonder why we are not focusing the attention, resources and proper care today on them.
Hospitals, long term care residential facilities, caregivers and those receiving care need to bring this issue front and center and ask the difficult questions and make available the possible solutions. We can no longer put our heads in the ground and raise it only for the alcoholic rages of Mel Gibson or the narcissistic wounds of Lindsay Lohan. Yes they are suffering addicts but so are so many in the Silver Tsunami today.
Alcoholism and drug addiction begins the downward journey into illness, pain, and inactivity. Older adults who would otherwise enjoy grandchildren and family gatherings, becomes increasingly withdrawn, angry, and malcontent.
The good news is, older adults are more successful in treatment than any other age group. They can reclaim their lives.
Warning signs of substance abuse may be harder to detect in older adults. Chronic health issues may mask substance abuse. Seniors often drink or use drugs alone and at home, effectively hiding their problem from friends and family. If you are concerned about an older family member’s drug or alcohol use, look for these symptoms:
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Remember, out of sight; out of mind. Our seniors cannot afford that approach and neither can we. Look for our launch on www.intherooms.com for Recovery Awareness Month in September.
