Diseases and Conditions

Common Elderly Health Issues

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Substance abuse

Alcohol and drug abuse are problems that are more prevalent among older Americans than people may realize. Substance abuse isn’t typically associated with older populations, and it tends to be overlooked by medical professionals and social workers. In some case, evidence of substance abuse may be mistaken for a reaction to prescribed medications.

Substance abuse can be the result of a variety of factors. Physical pain, mental deficits, and sensory impairments can lead someone to start abusing drugs or alcohol.