In the last decade, the number of alcohol related deaths has increased substantially for those aged 55 -74: by 87 percent for men and 53 per cent for women, according to Drugscope, a UK membership association for health professionals working with substance abuse.
In the years 2002-2010, the number of alcohol-related hospital admissions rose by a whopping 136 per cent for men over the age of 65, and 132 per cent for women, easily beating any other age category.
In addition, those aged 65+ accounted for 44 per cent of all alcohol-related admissions, even though they represent just 17 per cent of the overall population.
In regards to drug use, while the overall number of people undergoing treatment for drug abuse is declining, the number of people 40+ requiring treatment is rising.
For Over 65s it is mostly prescription drugs, particularly benzodiazepines, which is commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia.
Late start drug and alcohol abuse is frequently related to life stressors occurring in this age group, such as bereavement, financial stress and social isolation.
