As Americans live longer, substance abuse disorder is becoming increasingly prevalent in older adults. According to 2022 data from the American Psychological Association, one in 11 adults over the age of 60 has a substance abuse disorder. Neuropsychiatrist Thomas Weiss, who has practiced medicine for over 35 years and focused on serving older adults, describes the trend as “an unseen epidemic,” noting that “there’s a high percentage of folks that are over 65 that are using more drugs and substances.” Alcohol, marijuana, opioids, and prescription medications are major contributors to overdoses and substance disorders in older adults, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse.
Contributing Factors and Biopsychosocial Changes
Depression and co-morbid health conditions contribute to increased drug use and drinking in older populations. Weiss notes that isolation often accompanies aging: “We’re alone. Maybe our children live in another state, and they maybe call us once a month if we’re lucky.” Chronic pain is another significant factor, and while medications exist to manage it, “those are medicines that can be easily abused.” Research shows older adults experience biopsychosocial changes that alter the body’s ability to process drugs and alcohol, making misuse easier compared to younger adults. Substance misuse affects nearly every aspect of life, from social relationships to poor mental and physical health, leading to falls, illness, or death.
Detection Gaps and Warning Signs
Substance abuse often goes unidentified during primary care visits. According to Weiss, “Only 18% of those over 65 hospitalized for substance abuse are referred by physicians. The rest are brought in by a family member or law enforcement.” Major warning signs include increased falling, frequently changing physicians, filling prescriptions at multiple pharmacies, and new onset irritability or confusion. John De La Garza, a mobile integrated health officer with the San Antonio Fire Department, notes that memory issues complicate medication management in older adults: people may forget when they’re supposed to be taking medication, leading to accidental overdoses. Research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration shows that older adults respond well to modern substance abuse programs, medications, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Weiss emphasizes that awareness and eliminating shame are critical first steps toward treatment.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2026/02/09/its-an-unseen-epidemic-substance-abuse-disorder-rising-among-older-adults-expert-says/