Drug Abuse Admissions Up Among People Over 50

Source: Associated Press

(AP) America's drug abusers are going gray.

The proportion of people admitted to treatment for drug abuse who are aged 50 or over nearly doubled between 1992 and 2008, a new government study says.

Alcohol is still the leading cause of admissions in this age group, but sharp increases were noted in those needing treatment for heroin, cocaine and marijuana, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports Wednesday.

"These findings show the changing scope of substance abuse problems in America," agency administrator Pamela S. Hyde said in a statement. "The graying of drug users in America is an issue for any programs and communities providing health or social services for seniors."

While some people 50 and over were taking up drugs for the first time — notably cocaine users — the study found that three-quarters of older Americans admitted for treatment had started using drugs before age 25.
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It' tough out there, baby.

"RRRRRRRRRRRRRrrrrrrrrrrrring!!!! Shit, mom, it's 4 am! No, I can't talk, now!!"

HEAVILY sedated in those nursing homes.

that can be a lot to take for some folks, hence the drugs.

I think the OP's statistic isn't alarming.