New Survey Finds Older Adults Are Concerned About Opioid Abuse but Admit Misusing Drugs

A Reader's Digest/Choices Matter survey of 1,239 adults 50 and older characterized their choices and attitudes to opioids, reports Forbes . Nearly 60 percent of respondents expressed concerns that taking opioids can lead to addiction and dependence, yet nearly 50 percent thought Americans 20 to 39 years old are the most at-risk demographic. Meanwhile, about 82 percent agreed older adults and doctors need more access to non-opioid options, but some of their actions may actually boost opioid-related risks. For instance, roughly one-third of respondents prescribed opioids admitted to keeping unused pills in their homes. Participants also confessed to misuse, with almost 40 percent taking leftover opioids for conditions the medications were not initially prescribed to treat. "While there may be situations where opioids are still prescribed, having a conversation beforehand ensures that all parties are aware of the risks that come with taking opioids," recommended Shariff K. Bishai with Associated Orthopaedists of Detroit in Michigan.