CNA 2022-25 vFINAL 09202022 MASTER COPY - Flipbook - Page 117
Seniors (65+): Primary Mental Health Problems
Twenty-seven respondents gave an answer to the question about seniors9 mental health problems and
checked off an average of two multiple-choice answers each.
Figure G2g: Primary Mental Health Issues for Seniors (N=27)
Staff-Board-Policy Council-Volunteer Survey
0%
10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%
Depression
Anxiety
Trauma
Substance misuse by caregivers
Developmental issues (i.e. delays, disabilities)
OTHER
Substance abuse
Health issues, eye and hearing problems
Fear?
Isolation, food insecurities, the lack of money.
Loneliness
Seniors: Opioid Use
Thirteen respondents had seen an impact of opioid use on seniors, including increased use, while four had
not observed any impact. Here is a sampling of comments from those who did see an impact.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Alcohol. Not so much opioids.
The impact on them of a family member who is using.
Has been given by medical professionals so freely, then becomes addictive.
I have not noted a direct impact on individual seniors. I am aware seniors are taken advantage of by
children or grandchildren to get access to their medications or money. I am aware that there are
seniors caring for their grandchildren due to the substance use issues of the parents.
It is harder for some of our seniors that are in pain to get stronger pain medications due to safeguards
that doctors, NYS, and insurances have put in to place.
It is taking away the people they care about and that tend to care for the seniors.
Conclusion
The experiences and insights of our survey respondents have laid out a picture that is painful and
difficult. The impact of untreated mental health problems and of opioid use on children and families is
heartbreaking. Mental health problems and opioid use and overdose seem to be increasing, and the
COVID pandemic has exacerbated these problems. Ironically, while there has been a greater recognition
of mental health needs during the pandemic, the pandemic and the many other events in the news have
pushed opioid use out of the public eye. Sadly, the capacity of the mental health and drug treatment
Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc. Community Needs Assessment 2022 – 2025
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