The over-50s are most likely to overdose. Here’s how older people use drugs

A surprising trend shows that individuals aged 50-59 now account for the largest share of unintentional overdose deaths, driven largely by prescription medications rather than illicit drugs. This shift highlights the need for better monitoring and management of medications among older adults, who often take multiple prescriptions. It’s a wake-up call to healthcare providers to consider the risks of polypharmacy and ensure safer medication practices for this age group, as the aging population continues to grow.