How to Support Seniors Who Are Struggling with Addiction

The common perception when it comes to addiction or substance use disorder is that it mainly affects younger individuals. The societal image often conjures up teenagers dabbling with drugs and alcohol, college students experiencing independence for the first time at university, or adults aged between 21 and 35 who are still engaged in a partying lifestyle.

While it's true that addiction tends to affect the younger adult demographic more significantly, there's a particular age group that has been witnessing a dramatic increase in substance use disorder rates over recent years: the elderly and senior population. Here's how to support seniors struggling with addiction.

Motivate them to Seek Assistance

Like other health conditions, the sooner an addiction is addressed, the more advantageous it becomes. However, it's common to encounter resistance or justifications for not pursuing treatment. Despite this, it's vital to continuously stress the importance of them seeking help for their addiction while steering clear of inducing feelings of guilt or shame.

An alternative approach could be organizing an intervention for your dear one. These can be challenging to conduct, but if your loved one is heavily consumed by their addiction, an intervention might be exactly what they require. Involving an intervention expert to guide you through this procedure could be beneficial.

Avoiding Accusations and Criticism in Dialogues

Criticizing or passing judgment on your loved one will only serve to erect further obstacles in the path of effective communication. Instead, concentrate on conveying your unwavering support and comprehension, underlining that you stand ready to aid them through their difficulties. Make sure to distinguish the individual from their addiction or depression, focusing on their inherent value and potential for recuperation.

One must recognize that addiction and depression are intricate problems that necessitate professional intervention. Motivate your loved one to understand addiction to Benzos or any other substance can be treated. Encourage them to pursue suitable treatment and offer your help in locating resources. Demonstrating your dedication to their health can cultivate trust and support.

Provide Aid in Recovery Without Feeding the Addiction

A serious substance use disorder can significantly impact an individual's financial situation and potentially lead to legal issues, physical harm, and various other troublesome circumstances. Loved ones often attempt to shield the person from these consequences, but this usually inadvertently allows the substance abuse to escalate. Emotional and material support is typically crucial for those in the early stages of recovery.

While providing this support is beneficial, it's vital to clarify that your assistance will solely be towards their recovery efforts and nothing more. Concentrate on encouraging your loved one's future aspirations, such as furthering their education or securing employment.

Don't Forget Addiction Is a Disease

The use of drugs and alcohol can modify the brain's structure, impair its capabilities, and induce a state of reliance. This leads to a warped value system that increasingly justifies continuous substance use. It's normal to feel aggravated with someone you care about when they engage in activities that negatively impact their health. For your wellness, you might occasionally need to reduce your interactions if that individual is actively abusing substances or alcohol.

However, be mindful not to alienate them. This could trigger feelings of humiliation and hinder their comfort in seeking help. Once they embark on their recovery journey, and when the timing feels right, you can gradually enhance your communication with them. Strive to empathize with how substance abuse became a habitual aspect of their life and inquire about how you can most effectively support them.

Endnote

Assisting a senior loved one who is battling drug addiction and depression can be a taxing and emotionally heavy journey. Nonetheless, by developing a profound comprehension of their problems, you can become an essential support and direction pillar.