Elders at risk for opioid misuse

Misuse of opioids, including prescription painkillers like hydrocodone and oxycodone, is being declared a health emergency in the United States, and it has been a growing public health crisis across Indian Country. Though misuse is more widespread among younger adults, elders are particularly at risk. AARP Public Policy Institute’s Analysis of National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2015 found that more than half of elders who misused painkillers did so after receiving them from doctors. AARP Public Policy Institute’s Insight on the Issues (PDF, 240 KB, 8 pp) lists several reasons why elders may be affected by opioid misuse. For example: they have complex health conditions and often have to take several medications they may struggle to take medications at the right times and in the correct amounts they could have trouble understanding instructions due to hearing and vision loss or mental health issues

Because opioids may be necessary to treat chronic pain for some elders, care providers should keep an eye on elders’ prescriptions to ensure they follow their prescription plan correctly and have what they need for pain management. You can share the National Institute on Aging’s information on safe medication use with elders to help them manage their medication safely.