New Generation Gap as Older Addicts Seek Help
New Generation Gap as Older Addicts Seek Help
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — All is peaceful and orderly on the older adult
unit at Hanley Center, where substance abusers over the age of 55 are
spared the noisy swagger of addicts half their age across the campus.
In their separate oasis, alcoholics and prescription drug abusers of
a certain age do not curse at one another, raise their voices in anger
or blast music at midnight. They don’t brag about their macho pasts or
stage drama-queen breakups on the communal pay phone. They show up on
time for therapy groups.
“We have different health issues,
different emotional issues, different grief issues,” said Patrick
Gallagher, 66, who was treated here for a dual addiction to pain
medication and alcohol. “We need more peace and quiet and a different
pace.”
Across the country, substance abuse centers are reaching
out to older addicts whose numbers are growing and who have
historically been ignored. There are now residential and outpatient
clinics dedicated to those over 50, special counselors just for them at
clinics that serve all ages, and screenings at centers for older
Americans and physicians’ offices to identify older people unaware of
their risk. continue reading article
“I have worked with Hired Power extensively in collaboration with Clearview Treatment Programs’ individualized outpatient program. I am always impressed with their effectiveness and professionalism.”
“Thanks again for being there for us and guiding us through some rough waters. Your kindness and genuine concern deeply touched my soul and we are all grateful our paths crossed when they did. You are a truly gifted professional, keep on doing what you do so well.”
“I just want to thank Hired Power for the PRA. He was a perfect match and I can’t say enough…. He was intensely committed. This is the first time I have been clean in over 30 years. Thank you again.”
“I don’t look at you (Hired Power) as hiring a service, I look at you as saving my life.” (referring to his ability to stay sober after returning home).
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