Photo By Staff Sgt. Simone Sampson | DC National Guard Drug Demand Reduction Civil Operators host a prescription safety...... read more read more
WASHINGTON—District of Columbia National Counterdrug Drug Demand Reduction (DDRO) team members hosted a Senior citizen prescription misuse education presentation on March 4, 2025, at the Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center in Washington, D.C. The presentation aimed to equip the senior community with the knowledge and resources needed to combat prescription drug misuse and abuse.
According to a National Institute of Health (NIH) manuscript, “Prescription Use Disorders in Older Adults,” prescription drug abuse among older adults is a growing concern, often referred to as the “invisible epidemic.” Adults aged 65 and older account for nearly one-third of all prescription drug use in the U.S. Due to age-related health issues and polypharmacy—taking multiple medications for various conditions—this group is particularly vulnerable to misuse and dependence on opioids, stimulants, and benzodiazepines.
Recognizing this rising issue, the DDRO team emphasized its mission to eliminate the root causes of drug misuse through awareness, resilience, and healthy choices. The presentation focused on; Understanding medications and their potential risks, effective medication management, strategies to reduce misuse risks, and encouraging open conversations with doctors and pharmacists.
Many seniors expressed appreciation for the session, recognizing its importance in managing their prescriptions safely.
“I thought the presentation was fulfilling,” said Cynthia Niler, a Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center member. “When we first start getting medication as a senior, it’s fine, but then when you get older, you get a large quantity of medicine and forget what you’re supposed to be doing. I appreciate DDRO for coming in to remind us with your presentation.”
To measure the presentation’s impact, participants completed pre- and post-assessment surveys. The results showed a 22% increase in knowledge about prescription drug safety, demonstrating the session's effectiveness.
Officer Berrita Willis, 7th District Community Outreach Coordinator for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), highlighted the significance of the presentation.“I thought it was extremely informative for me as an officer,” said Willis. “I’m looking forward to seeing the presentation done at more senior facilities.”
According to the Washington D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, 72% of fatal opioid overdoses in Washington, D.C., occur among adults aged 40-69, and with a sharp rise in seniors aged 70-79, medication safety remains a key prevention strategy.
The DDRO team reinforced several key takeaways; Seniors should maintain an updated medication list and discuss it regularly with healthcare providers, advocating for themselves during medical appointments is crucial, and Using a single pharmacy can help ensure accurate medication records.
By continuing to provide education and awareness, DDRO remains committed to preventing prescription drug misuse and empowering the community to make informed, healthy choices.
| Date Taken: | 03.04.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 03.28.2025 15:20 |
| Story ID: | 492607 |
| Location: | WASHINGTON D.C., DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 15 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Counterdrug Team Leads Prescription Misuse Education Presentation for Seniors, by SGT Noel Williams, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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