SAMHSA says that rising rates of substance abuse among older persons will require more treatment services

>A new study released by the Substance Abuse and MentalHealth Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that the aging of thebaby boom generation is resulting in a dramatic increase in levels ofillicit drug use among adults 50 and older.  These increases mayrequire the doubling of substance abuse treatment services needed forthis population by 2020, according to the report.  Substance abuse atany age is associated with numerous health and social problems, butage-related physiological and social changes make older adults morevulnerable to the harmful effect of illicit drugs use. “This studyhighlights the fact that older Americans face a wide spectrum ofhealthcare concerns that must be addressed in a comprehensive way,”said Assistant Secretary for Aging, Kathy Greenlee.  “TheAdministration on Aging is committed to working with SAMHSA and allother public health partners in meeting these challenges.” 
The full report is online at http://www.oas.samhsa.gov/2k9/168/168OlderAdults.cfm