Healing At All Ages: OneEighty’s Life-Saving Older Adults Programs
“Every life is worth saving, it’s about meeting people where they are to help them get there,” believes Kris D’Atri, an Outpatient Counselor at OneEighty.
Kris D’Atri has become a vital force in the fight for recovery and support for those affected by addiction in Wayne and Holmes Counties. Her work at OneEighty focuses on older adults – an approach that prioritizes dignity, compassion, and practical support for individuals wherever they are on their journey. For Kris, it’s more than just a job; it’s a mission rooted in the belief that everyone deserves access to life-saving resources, free from stigma and judgment.
OneEighty is dedicated to creating a supportive environment where individuals of all ages can access essential resources and education aimed at preventing overdose and addressing substance use disorders. Recognizing that older adults often face unique challenges, OneEighty tailors its programs to meet their specific needs, offering a compassionate approach that prioritizes understanding and empowerment. Through educational workshops, confidential counseling, and community outreach, OneEighty not only informs individuals about the risks associated with substance use but also works to reduce the stigma surrounding these issues. This commitment ensures that older adults feel safe and respected as they seek help.
Substance Use in Older Adults: The Growing Need for Awareness
The issue of substance use among older adults has become increasingly prominent. As individuals age, they may face unique challenges related to physical health, mental well-being, and social circumstances, all of which can contribute to an increase in substance use. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 65% of adults aged 65 and older engage in high-risk drinking, defined as exceeding daily guidelines at least once a week in the past year. This alarming statistic underscores the prevalence of alcohol misuse in a population that is often more vulnerable to its effects.
In addition, data from the SAMHSA National Survey on Drug Use and Health reveals that 1 in 8 older adults used illicit drugs within the past year, while 1 in 11 had a substance use disorder (SUD). Such high rates of substance use disorders can exacerbate health issues; older adults frequently experience heightened sensitivity to substances, leading to increased risk of injury and complications with existing medical conditions. As an advocate for older adults at OneEighty, Kris emphasizes the importance of this awareness: “I think it’s important for folks to understand that drinking alcohol or using illegal substances takes more of a toll on our bodies as we get older. Sometimes folks who are older are starting to deal with chronic health problems, such as heart issues or kidney problems, maybe diabetes, or even cancers. And treatments for conditions are impacted by adding alcohol or other drugs to the mix of what they’re taking.”
As older adults often take multiple medications for chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and depression, the risks of overdoses and adverse side effects can increase dramatically. For example, alcohol can exacerbate conditions like congestive heart failure and can lead to serious complications with other medications. According to a 2023 JAMA article, the rate of fatal drug overdoses among individuals aged 65 and older quadrupled between 2002 and 2021, with many fatalities stemming from unintentional overdoses caused by a combination of substances.
Understanding the Urgent Need for Support and Education
Given these concerning statistics, it is vital for organizations like ours to step up and provide support and education tailored to the needs of older adults. As Kris explains, “At OneEighty, our mission is to educate and empower individuals of all ages, especially seniors, about substance use and its implications. I would love for counseling and mental health to just be a normal part of health for people of all ages. I would love for people not to feel that they have to be really bad to seek help. I would just love to see the normalization of mental health.” OneEighty’s programs are designed to inform older adults about the risks associated with substance use and foster an environment where they can openly discuss their experiences without fear of judgment.
Kris D’Atri’s work at OneEighty exemplifies the embodiment of what she preaches, particularly in her unwavering commitment to making support accessible for older adults facing substance use and mental health challenges. Recognizing that these individuals often experience barriers – such as stigma, fear of judgment, and lack of resources – Kris actively seeks to create an environment where they can find judgment-free support at OneEighty.
“We always say, start with the client,” Kris emphasizes. “We do an initial evaluation to paint a picture of what’s going on. We try to figure out what the barriers are in their life right now. What is holding them back? Then, we put our heads together and figure out a way to remove the barriers in a healthier way.” By fostering a compassionate atmosphere, OneEighty encourages individuals to open up about their struggles without fear of stigma. This approach is essential for building trust and empowering older adults to seek the help they need.
The Big Picture: You Deserve to Seek Support
Through educational initiatives and community outreach, Kris strives to ensure that older adults have access to the resources they require. OneEighty’s programs not only provide essential support for addiction recovery but also incorporate mental health services, recognizing that the two are often interconnected. “I want to emphasize the importance of normalizing the adjustment to change and the role a therapist can play in helping you navigate these transitions. Whether the change is significant or something you might downplay – especially among older adults who often minimize their struggles – it’s crucial to recognize that if it’s affecting you, it’s valid,” Kris states. “You deserve to seek support and talk about what you’re experiencing.”
By shining a light on these issues, OneEighty hopes to inspire older adults to seek help and support when needed, reinforcing that they are not alone in their struggles. As Kris states, “If you can have someone lead the way and help carry the burden and help you sort out what the main issues are in your life and just make a plan and deal with them, wouldn’t you? At OneEighty, we are here. Let’s get it done.”
Life Beyond Substance Use and Mental Health Challenges
Kris D’Atri emphasizes the importance of fostering independence in older adults: “Our mission is to help individuals not only manage their substance use but also find their footing in a world that can sometimes feel isolating.” This holistic approach recognizes that recovery is not just about abstaining from substances but also about nurturing one’s mental health and personal growth.
Older adults often face unique challenges, including social isolation, grief, and health issues, which can exacerbate substance use and mental health struggles. However, OneEighty’s programs provide a supportive community where individuals can connect, share their experiences, and develop strategies for coping with these challenges.
Kris encourages individuals to take that first step: “There’s no deadline for working through life’s challenges. Each person’s journey is unique, and we’re here to walk alongside them.” OneEighty’s commitment to providing resources, education, and community support underscores that recovery is not only possible but can also lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life.
OneEighty Resources
For those encountering a substance use crisis, please call OneEighty’s Substance Use Crisis hotline, available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year, at 330-466-0678. For other resources, click the links below:
Community Relations & Prevention
Substance Use Treatment Navigator Hotline
Intimate Partner & Domestic Violence booklet (Wayne County)Self-Help Legal Manual
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