New data shows a jump in older people dying from drug overdoses

But new data from Australia’s Annual Overdose Report, published on Sunday, reveals a significant jump in the number of older adults dying from an overdose, compared to two decades ago.

Since 2001, unintentional overdose deaths have declined by about one-third among people under 30. But deaths in those aged 50–59 have increased three-fold. Among 60–69 year olds, deaths have nearly doubled.

So, why are more older Australians dying from drug overdoses? And what can we do about it?