Senior Resources

Drug and Alcohol Resources

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.

  • Drug Facts for Aging Adults
    • The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) conducts and supports research to better understand how current and previous substance use affect the aging brain.
  • A Senior's Guide to Fentanyl
    • An understanding of fentanyl, the threat it poses, and how to have conversations with adult children and grandchildren.
  • Alcohol Facts
    • The effects of alcohol change as we age. Follow the link to learn more about those changes and dangers!
  • Taking Medicines Safely as You Age
    • Learn how to safely take and keep track of all of your medicines.


As people age, they may experience certain life changes that impact their mental health, such as coping with a serious illness or losing a loved one. Although many people will adjust to these life changes, some may experience feelings of grief, social isolation, or loneliness. When these feelings persist, they can lead to mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Mental health is important at every stage of life. Effective treatment options are available to help older adults manage their mental health and improve their quality of life. Recognizing the signs and seeing a health care provider are the first steps to getting treatment.

  • Depression Facts
    • Feeling down every once in a while is a normal part of life, but if these feelings last a few weeks or months, you may have depression. Read this article to find common signs and symptoms of depression, treatment options, and if you or your loved one may be at risk for depression.
  • Anxiety and Older Adults: A Guide to Get the Relief You Need
    • Anxiety is a natural response to many life stressors, such as meeting new people, speaking in public, or getting lost in an unfamiliar environment. But when those feelings of nervousness become overwhelming and make everyday life more difficult, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.  Anxiety disorders affect nearly 4% of older adults worldwide, and those are only the cases that are recognized and diagnosed.
  • Mindfulness For Seniors: Meditation And Mindfulness Activities For Older Adults
    • Life changes, health concerns, and the pace of everything around us doesn’t slow down just because we do. Mindfulness can enhance mental sharpness, bring a sense of calm into your daily life, boost your mood, strengthen brain health, and elevate your physical and emotional well-being.


National Resources