When Seniors Meet Designer Drugs

The opioid epidemic is in the news.  We don’t associate seniors with these issues.  However we should be aware of the problems they can create for seniors.  We caregivers do what we can to examine in-home help before they participate with our seniors.  Agencies run “background checks” on potential employees.  However, these methods do not always reveal drug use.  Here’s where we are now:

1. Background checks usually involved a drug test. Drug tests only cover certain kinds of drugs.  These designer drugs are not plant-based like opium from a poppy.  Thus the testing agency may not have a screening device to catch these test-tube drugs.  Second, designer drugs “mutate” quickly.  As soon as one drug is identified, the dealer manufactures a slightly different version. Third, substances labeled “not for human consumption” are sold/used as drugs.  The DEA’s process of scheduling (listing as a “controlled substance”) takes time and has not kept up with these mutating drugs. 
   
2. January 1st, 2016here in Illinois which is one of only 2 states to do this, passed a law: P.A. -0371; the Synthetic Drug Act 728 ILCS 570/204.  This changed the Illinois Controlled Substances Act.  The phrase, “or designer drug” was added.  It’s generic to cover whatever they cook up next.  The criteria for a designer drug’s designation are:

1. Chemically similar to an illegal,
2. Produces similar intoxicating effects,
3. REMOVES the “intended for human consumption” clause i.e. elephant tranquilizers, bath salts, or potpourri are included on the controlled list.
   

What can you to protect your senior?

1. Be aware of these new drugs and the new law.
2. Ask pointed questions about exactly what the agency tests.  If they say the test for all listed substances, that’s not good enough.
3. Ask about drug testing of other staff such as in-home Physical Therapists, portable X-ray technicians, and home repair staff.
4. Be aware that not all agencies test.  The plumber who comes to your senior’s home may or may not be tested. 
5. Explain to your senior that there are some people who might not be honest even if they are nice to talk to. (House-bound seniors can get lonely)
6. Make random visits to your senior’s home; drop in. Look at the staff, especially their eyes. 

1. W-I-D-E  awake eyes could mean the presence of drugs if the light level in the room is not dark. The person may also have a dazed, vacant look, muscle tremor, seem hyperactive, and be sweating.  Not all of these symptoms need to be present in every person.
2. Sleepy eyes, lowered lids below the pupil, could indicate the presence of drugs in the system.
3. Pin point pupil eyes, along with flaccid muscle tone and a tendency to nod off could indicate another form of substance abuse. 
4. Check the situation first.  Is the light level in the room noon-day bright?  Are your senior’s eyes like that?  Was the staff member working extra shifts and that’s why they are nodding off?  Ask questions before reaching conclusions.  Do not call in their presence.  Do not try to confront the person yourself.  It is the agency’s job to get testing done. Ask for a meeting with the supervisor.
5. Document what you saw as soon as you can.  This process helps you to “download” your feelings about it.  It also helps you to recall information later.  I do not suggest you call or confront in the senior’s presence.  They may have become attached to their staff and would be upset.  If you’re worried about the senior’s safety, explain to the staff that they can go home early because you will be caring for the senior today.

I usually do not make specific resource recommendations but this one is excellent:Current Drug Trends
Sgt Bruce R. Talbot (Ret) MPA
http://DrugRecognition.com

Voicemail: 630 253-8404

I strongly recommend you take this course.Let’s keep our seniors safe.