Older Adults

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a growing issue in adults aged 65 and older in the United States. Older adults are more likely to take prescription medications and experience chronic health problems associated with aging, including chronic pain. These factors, as well as stressors such as grief and loss of independence, may contribute to substance misuse and complicate SUD treatment in older adults. NIDA conducts and supports research to better understand how current and previous substance use affect the aging brain and how to tailor SUD treatment to meet the unique needs of older populations. Read the DrugFacts