Drug and alcohol abuse is often thought of as a problem among teens and young adults, but experts say that alcoholism and drug abuse have reached epidemic proportions among older adults. And, as the "Baby Boomer" generation starts to reach retirement age, addiction and recovery experts are bracing for a dramatic increase in the number of elder addicts. Listen now
Find out more about the problem and what's being done about it on Florida Matters with Carson Cooper and guests:
Dr. Lawrence Schonfeld,of the Florida Mental Health Institute at USF
Juan Harris,Program Manager for Older Adult Recovery at Hanley Center
“Bill C.” - an older adult who is a recovering alcoholic.
This program was originally broadcast October 27, 2006.
Join WUSF's Carson Cooper for Florida Matters Friday evening at 6:30 pm, and Saturday at Noon, on WUSF 89.7, your NPR Station.
Florida Matters is WUSF 89.7's forum that goes beyond the daily headlines and explores issues that matter to you and your community.
Florida Matters addresses critical issues identified by listeners in our Ascertainment Survey 2006. The top five issues that matter most to you are: education, transportation, growth management, environment and affordable housing. Hear directly from decision makers, experts and other concerned citizens. Our purpose is not only to stimulate conversation, but to advance the discussion.
Carson Cooper has been a favorite of listeners as Host of "Morning Edition" on WUSF 89.7 since 2000. He also reports for other WUSF 89.7 broadcasts. Carson has worked in Tampa Bay radio for more than two decades.
