According to a recent report, those abusing drugs in the U. S. total to about five per cent of aging Baby Boomers.

It means that about 4.3 million adults over the age of 50 are consuming marijuana, they abuse prescription medication form a part of some kind of illicit drug activity.

Treatment among Americans over the age of 50 is expected to double by 2020. This was stated by a new study that was conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

"This new data has profound implications for the health and well-being of older adults who continue to abuse substances. These findings highlight the need for prevention programs for all ages," said SAMHSA Administrator Pamela S. Hyde.

Physiological and social changes make elderly lot susceptible to the harmful effect of illicit drugs use. Moreover, substance abuse has negative ripple affect on health and overall well being at any age.

Jeffrey Parsons, chair of psychology at Hunter College in New York City said different treatments might be needed for the two different groups, people who are new to addiction and people who are old users.