Many are surprised to hear that substance abuse and addiction are on the rise for adults over age 65. Pam Feinberg, an active member of Florida Senior Care Solutions, is working hard to start conversations and break the stigma around substance and alcohol abuse in the aging population.
DID YOU KNOW?
By the year 2030, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. residents will be 65 or older.
Alcohol contributes to 60% of falls in seniors
Half of all residents in nursing homes have an alcohol problem.
Addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. However, caregivers and medical professionals are not without options. Pam emphasizes that there are warning signs to look for in older adults related to alcohol and/or prescription abuse. Paying attention to these signs can mean the difference in getting an individual the help they need.
by Pam Feinberg-Rivkin, RN, Feinberg Consulting
Pam is a BSN-Prepared Registered Nurse, a Certified Case Manager, and Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN). Pam and her team work with clients and their families who are struggling with Mental Health or Addiction Crises.