Out of the taboo zone: help for addicts in old age

Unmasking the Hidden Struggles: Supporting Seniors Overcoming Addictions in Brandenburg

Seniors in Brandenburg, Germany, grappling with addiction issues and underlying health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure now have access to a wealth of resources and support. The "selbstbestimmt" (self-determined) project, initiated by the Brandenburg State Office for Addiction Issues (BLS), aims to destigmatize addiction and empower older adults to address their concerns.

The project provides a range of resources, including tip sheets, suggestions for difficult conversations, and mental health support for seniors. By partnering with the GKV Alliance for Health, the Brandenburg Ministry of Health is actively encouraging older adults to acknowledge and confront potentially risky consumption patterns.

According to data provided by the ministry, 15% of individuals seeking addiction counseling services in Brandenburg are over 57 years old. Moreover, alcohol is the most common issue among the senior clientele at outpatient addiction support facilities. The project aims to raise awareness and educate people about the sensitivity of the aging body to alcohol and the potential consequences of mixing medications with alcohol.

Besides the base article resources, seniors can explore these little-known strategies to manage addiction and co-occurring conditions like diabetes:

1. Magellan Health Insurance Coverage:
2. For seniors with Magellan Health insurance, various treatment services are available, including psychiatric services, medical detox, inpatient and residential behavioral rehab, outpatient services, and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder. Verify Magellan's coverage details and locate nearby rehabilitation centers.
3. Local Addiction Treatment Centers:
4. Specialty addiction treatment centers in Germany offer tailored care for older adults by providing dual-diagnosis treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. These centers often include peer support groups and promote wellness-focused recovery programs.
5. Circadian Rhythm Therapy:
6. Struggling with alcohol use disorder? Personalized circadian rhythm therapy, such as the DAILY method, can be highly beneficial for seniors. This approach strengthens circadian rhythms and alleviates withdrawal symptoms and cravings by structuring daily activities.
7. Diabetes and Addiction Management:
8. Comprehensive addiction treatment centers offer assistance with managing both addiction and underlying health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. This includes dietary advice, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
9. Consulting with Specialists:
10. Speak with healthcare providers who specialize in addiction and co-occurring conditions. They can help develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses both addiction and underlying health issues.
11. Support Groups and Community Resources:
12. Joining peer support groups or utilizing community resources like local health clinics, counseling services, and support hotlines provides seniors with emotional support and practical guidance during their journey to recovery.

By utilizing these resources, seniors in Brandenburg, Germany, can access comprehensive support for overcoming addiction while addressing underlying health conditions, stepping out of the stigma and working towards improved quality of life.