Middlesex DA Talks Opioids With Belmont Seniors

BELMONT, MA – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan recently spoke to Belmont seniors about the risks and impacts of the opioid crisis on their lives. The presentation was part of Ryan's county-wide initiative to educate seniors on how to properly manage their prescription medication, keep medication safe from theft, properly dispose of unused or expired medicaiton and identify signs of drug addiction in loved ones.

Seniors were also provided resources about support programs, guidance and coaching for family members grappling with addiction. Ryan was joined by James McNeilly of the Belmont Fire Department; Paula Evans, assistant professor of pharmacy practice at MCPHS; Kristin Daley of the Belmont Police Department and Belmont Police Chief Richard McLaughlin.

Approximately 34,000 grandparents in Massachusetts are raising grandchildren, according to the DA's office. A survey conducted by the Commission on the Status of Grandparents Raising Children found that of that number, about 80 percent are due to the opioid-related death or chronic opioid use of a parent.

Grandparents can also be financially vulnerable and susceptible to pressure from family members asking for money. The DA's office "grandparent program" helps seniors identify signs of substance use, such as missing spoons, aluminum foil, plastic sandwich bags and valuables like money and jewelry, and physical, social and emotional changes.

Image via Middlesex DA's office