When discussing bad news, it’s difficult not to feel an instinctive sense of concern as our empathetic side takes over. This is particularly true when we hear about the wide-ranging negative effects of one of the largest health crises to hit the United States: opioid addiction. You’ve probably heard a lot about the opioid crisis, but did you know the demographics of those addicted might not be what you expect?
Currently, more people in the U.S. use opioid painkillers than tobacco. These pain medications are being used more than cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco combined. Yet, despite a decrease in opioid prescriptions in recent years, addiction to these highly addictive medications is on the rise, particularly among seniors.
According to The Chicago Tribune, a 2011 report revealed that 15% of seniors were prescribed an opioid upon being discharged from a hospital stay. Three months later, 42% of those patients were still taking these addictive painkillers.
Moreover, 75% of opioid abusers and 80% of heroin users began with prescription opioids, according to drugabuse.gov. So, what can be done to avoid falling into the opioid trap?
Pain management in seniors
Opioids are often prescribed to seniors due to the numerous painful chronic conditions that become more common with age. These include arthritis, cancers, and neurological diseases. Seniors need to find other ways to manage their pain, to avoid relying on addictive medications that may not be a sustainable solution in the long run.
Here are some alternative methods that can help seniors avoid becoming an opioid statistic:
- Good nutrition: Eating a balanced diet that avoids overly processed foods can help alleviate pain-related ailments. Diets high in bad fats, refined flour, and sugar can cause chronic inflammation that could lead to major problems and result in pain. Focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods that are natural and additive-free.
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Nutritional supplements: Nature provides excellent alternatives to pain relief. For example, maintaining a regular intake of vitamin D can help regulate the body’s inflammation response and lower sensations of pain. Omega-3 fatty acids can also help keep joints well-lubricated to reduce stiffness and pain.
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Keep moving: Engaging in regular physical activity can help keep joints flexible and functional. Tai chi, for example, has been shown to benefit people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions. Exercise can also help reduce the risk of falls, improve balance, lower blood pressure, and relieve stress.
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Question your doctor’s choice of medication: Sometimes, pain medication is necessary, but it’s important to question your doctor about the best course of treatment. Non-opioid options, such as a combination of ibuprofen and acetaminophen, have been found to be more effective at relieving some types of pain. It’s crucial to consider all available options before taking that first step towards addiction.
By taking a more proactive approach to pain management, seniors can greatly reduce their chances of becoming addicted to opioids. Embracing a healthy lifestyle and exploring natural alternatives to pain management will not only help avoid the risks of addiction but support overall health and well-being as well. Remember, prescription medications should never be the first and only option for pain relief.
