Hospitalisations for cocaine abuse among the elderly are at an all-time high in the UK.
Typically associated with abuse amongst younger generations, the class A drug is increasingly responsible for damaging the mental and physical health of older people.
According to NHS statistics, 617 people over 60 were admitted to hospital last year due to cocaine-related mental and behavioural problems.
The number is up 19 percent from 2023 and nearly triple what it was five years ago.
Since the pandemic, the number of admitted patients of all ages has risen steadily. In 2023, 14,280 patients were admitted to hospital, compared to a figure of 12,470 in 2021, during the pandemic.
Twelve people in their 90s and twenty-three people in their 80s were admitted to hospital because of cocaine use last year, according to NHS England data.
In order to overcome their addictions to the drug, many elderly people seek treatment on the NHS. According to the latest statistics, 412 people aged 60 or older are in treatment for their cocaine addiction — an increase of more than 50 percent from five years ago.
4 million people in England and Wales have tried cocaine at some point in their lives, according to official estimates. After cannabis, cocaine is the most commonly used illegal stimulant in the country with over 1 million users in the UK last year.
The potency of cocaine available today might be unfamiliar to cocaine users in their 60s, 70s, and 80s. They have become more susceptible to drug-related mental health issues as a result.
Recognising The Warning Signs
While it’s easy to miss the early signs of cocaine use in older adults, you’ll often notice subtle changes in their behaviour or health. Mood swings, unexplained financial difficulties and sudden changes in sleeping patterns can all point to potential drug use.
If you’re worried about a loved one, remember that many common signs of cocaine use might be mistaken for normal signs of ageing. However, frequent nose bleeds, unexplained bursts of energy followed by profound fatigue or unusual financial requests should raise red flags.
You don’t need to tackle this challenge alone. Drug testing at home can provide clarity if you’re concerned, while NHS addiction services offer confidential support tailored to older adults. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so don’t wait to reach out for help.
Photo by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Testing
Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.
