Managing Detoxification: Medical Considerations for Older Adults

Overview of Detoxification in Older Adults

Many older adults throughout the US suffer from loneliness, lack of mobility, chronic pain, isolation, and untreated depression, all conditions that can lead a person to begin abusing drugs and alcohol. Some individuals begin to use their pain medications recreationally, or more often than prescribed, while others may have several drinks throughout the day to combat mental health symptoms and boredom. Over time, this substance abuse can lead to a serious addiction, and because the stigma surrounding drug and alcohol use disorders is high in the baby boomer generation, they may be more reluctant to see a problem or seek treatment. 

Detoxification for older adults is an important first step in treating substance use disorders, and at WhiteSands, we have created a detox for seniors that addresses the unique health and wellness issues older adults face in recovery. 

Risks Associated with Detox for Older Adults

Detoxing from drugs and alcohol always comes with risks, especially if you have been using these substances frequently, for a long time. Dangerous withdrawal symptoms like delirium, seizures, heart problems, and more are always a factor to consider and a good reason why choosing a medical detox is the safest route when quitting any substance. 

Older adults who have been abusing drugs and alcohol may have a more difficult time during detox than their younger counterparts. For example, the National Library of Medicine has published an article stating that seniors are more likely to experience cognitive and functional disorders, while certain medications may be less effective in preventing seizures during alcohol withdrawal. Older adults may also face other health risks and issues like:

• Co-occurring physical health problems and pain
• Co-occurring mental health concerns
• Sleep problems 
• Blood pressure issues
• Heart problems
• Seizures 
• Delirium tremens

These withdrawal symptoms are much more safely managed within a licensed and safe medical detox facility, as experienced doctors oversee treatment and make adjustments as needed. 

Medication Management for Seniors During Detox

The safest way to quit using many substances is to slowly taper off their use under medical supervision, which is even more important in the case of an older adult in detox. At WhiteSands, we offer medication management programs that can give you the right doses of medication to stave off the aches and pains, cravings, nausea, and other discomfort that come with detox, while improving your body’s health. The doses of medication will be slowly lowered over days, weeks, or even months depending on the substances you were using and your response to treatment. When combined with a comprehensive rehabilitation plan, prescription medications can help you wean off drugs and alcohol and give you a fresh start. 

Designing a Senior-Friendly Detox Program

Detox for seniors must consider the potential complications that older adults may face while in treatment. For some, mental decline is an issue and maybe the reason they began taking the wrong dose of their medications. Others may have serious health issues, chronic pain, or other disabilities that need to be treated as they detox and rehabilitate. 

At WhiteSands, we understand that seniors may need extra care. We have doctors, nurses, and health workers on staff day and night to administer over-the-counter and prescription medications as needed, and we also employ holistic measures to help keep our patients comfortable. You may begin a light yoga regimen once you’re feeling up to it, and during your stay with us, you’ll stay hydrated, eat healthy foods, and work on a healthy sleep schedule. Part of the treatment process is building a healthy routine that includes movement, and our exercise programs might have you stretching, hitting the gym, or spending time in the pool depending on your abilities. 

Detox for seniors is not just about getting the drugs out of your system. It’s also about setting you up to live your golden years as a healthy older adult. You still have a lot of life left to live. Working on the wellness of your body, mind, and spirit will not only extend the years but will improve your overall quality of life. 

Support Systems and Safeguards for Seniors in Detox

The most important safeguard during detoxification for older adults is to have licensed and experienced medical staff available day and night during the entire detox process. Along with a full evaluation of your medical and mental health needs, your doctors can provide medications and care to keep you safe as your body adjusts to the lack of the drug or alcohol in your system. This process is never easy, but with our team on your side, you will have all the support you need to get through it and start recovery clean and sober. 

Best Practices in Managing Detoxification for Older Adults

When managing detox for seniors, best practices include: 

• Providing a full medical and psychological screening and assessment to find any co-occurring health problems or mental illness that can be treated alongside addiction
• Getting to know the individual, their preferences, and their recovery goals, and collaborating to create a tailored treatment plan that will best suit the person 
• Incorporating a holistic methodology to detox that looks at the whole person, not just the physical dependency
• Providing full-time medical care, along with mental health support and prescription medications as needed

Preventive Measures and Long-Term Care Following Detox

Detox is only the first step in addiction treatment. Following up with a short-term or long-term rehabilitation plan is the next step. Getting to the root of the issues that have led to substance abuse in therapy will improve your mental wellness and your quality of life, and with a strong case management and relapse prevention program in place, you will have the support you need to move forward in life without drugs and alcohol. At WhiteSands, we will create a custom program including inpatient and outpatient options that will keep you connected to support groups, doctors, and other treatments for as long as you need. 

Accessing Detox Services for Older Adults at WhiteSands Treatment

WhiteSands is a luxury rehab center in Florida, offering safe and effective detoxification for older adults, with customized programs that take into account your physical health and mental wellness as your body purges the toxins from your system. Detox does not have to be painful or scary. Our team of expert doctors, nurses, therapists, counselors, and addiction experts will be available to support you 24 hours a day as you detox, providing prescription medications, counseling, holistic healing options, and medical interventions if necessary. You will stay in a comfortable private room, with the option to join in on group therapy sessions right away if you feel up to it. 

If you’re a senior who is ready to quit drugs and alcohol for good, and want a safe, supportive environment to do so, consider WhiteSands. We are here to help you using expert knowledge, a customized treatment plan, and comprehensive care through all levels of treatment, including inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. You’ll never be alone in your newfound sobriety, with full support and access to help whenever you need it. Call us today at 877-855-3470, and we can help you determine your insurance coverage, and create a tailored recovery plan that will work for you. 

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.