Epidemiologic Investigation of the Elderly Deaths Caused by Narcotic and Psychedelic Drug Abuse Complications Referred to the Legal Medicine Organization of Tehran, Iran During 2013 and 2014

Conclusions: It can be argued that factors such as low level of education, male gender, habitation in a big city, free occupation, retirement or unemployment can contribute to an individual’s inclination to become addicted to narcotic or psychedelic drug abuse in aging (in the elderly), and these factors may be used to identify the elderly people at risk of drug addiction. Low prices and the fast availability of opium in Iran and some misconceptions about opium among Iranian people, may lead to its prevalent consumption among the elders. Increasing awareness in the elderly about the adverse effects of narcotic or psychedelic drug abuse can reduce their willingness to consuming drugs. Family support and psychological services, as well as medical and rehabilitation services for the elderly, can also be helpful in this regard.
Source: Addictive Disorders and Their Treatment - Category: Addiction Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research