Life Changes Associated With Substance Abuse in Older Adults

Emotional and Social Problems

• Bereavement and sadness
• Loss of:
  • Friends
  • Family members
  • Social status
  • Occupation and sense of professional identity
  • Hopes for the future
  • Ability to function
• Resulting sense of being a "nonperson"
• Social isolation and loneliness
• Reduced self-regard or self-esteem
• Family conflict and estrangement
• Problems in managing leisure time/boredom
• Loss of physical attractiveness (especially important for women)

Medical Problems

• Physical distress
• Chronic pain
• Physical disabilities and handicapping conditions
• Insomnia
• Sensory deficits
  • Hearing
  • Sight
• Reduced mobility
• Cognitive impairment and change

Practical Problems

• Impaired self-care
• Reduced coping skills
• Decreased economic security or new poverty status due to:
  • Loss of income
  • Increased health care costs
• Dislocation related to:
  • Move to new housing or family moving away
  • Homelessness
  • Inadequate housing