Hospitalizations for Cocaine Use Among Older Adults Surge
The number of hospital admissions for cocaine use among individuals aged 65 and over has risen sharply, increasing by a third in the past two years. Recent health service statistics reveal that 723 “silver snorters” required medical attention in the year ending this March, including eight patients in their 90s.
Data indicates that 70 individuals were between the ages of 75 and 79, and 28 were in their 80s. While 156 older adults were treated for established cocaine addiction, others sought help for withdrawal symptoms, depression, or psychosis potentially linked to cocaine use.
Although pensioners represent only three percent of the 23,644 total admissions for cocaine treatment, the over-65 demographic has experienced a notable increase. Hospitalizations in this age group are now 4.5 times higher than in 2014-15, when 164 cases were recorded.
Zaheen Ahmed, of drug addiction experts UKAT, stated: “Some older people experiment with cocaine because they have more disposable income, fewer responsibilities, and more free time. Others may be using it as a way to cope with loneliness, bereavement or the mental health challenges that can come with ageing.”
Ahmed also noted that some individuals who previously used cocaine might potentially be returning to the drug without realizing the increased risks associated with age-related health conditions and prescribed medications.