Pennsylvania Launches WISE Program to Combat Overdoses Among Older Adults
Pennsylvania implements the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) in four high-risk counties, using opioid settlement funds to address rising overdose rates among adults 55 and older.
The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) and the Department of Aging have launched a targeted initiative to address an often-overlooked demographic in the addiction crisis: older adults. The Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) program is now rolling out across four counties with the highest overdose rates among residents aged 55 and older, funded through the state's share of the "Big Four" opioid settlement.
The Growing Crisis Among Older Adults
While much attention has focused on younger populations, overdose deaths among older Americans have risen steadily in recent years. In Pennsylvania, adults aged 55 and older represent a significant and growing portion of fatal overdose cases. State data shows that one in eight seniors struggles with mental health issues and uses illicit drugs, while one in eleven has a substance use disorder.
"Many people assume that substance use disorders primarily affect younger populations, but the reality is that older adults face unique risk factors," said DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones at the program's announcement. "Chronic pain management, social isolation, grief, and the challenges of aging can all contribute to substance misuse in this population."
What is the WISE Program?
The Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) is an evidence-based prevention and wellness program specifically designed for adults aged 55 and older. Developed through research in substance use prevention and senior health, WISE combines education about medication safety, mental health awareness, and healthy aging with practical strategies for maintaining wellness.
The program addresses several key areas:
- Medication management and safe use of prescription drugs
- Understanding the risks of mixing medications and substances
- Mental health awareness and suicide prevention
- Social connection and community engagement
- Healthy lifestyle choices and stress management
"WISE isn't just about saying 'don't use drugs,'" explained Department of Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich. "It's about giving seniors the tools they need to manage their health, recognize warning signs in themselves and their peers, and access support when they need it."
Four Counties Lead the Pilot
The pilot program is launching in four Pennsylvania counties identified as having the highest overdose rates among residents 55 and older. Lawrence County is among the selected locations, with local officials expressing both concern about the statistics and optimism about the intervention.
The county-specific approach allows the program to be tailored to local needs and resources. Each participating county is working with local aging services providers, community centers, and healthcare facilities to deliver WISE programming in accessible locations.
Funded by Opioid Settlement Dollars
The WISE initiative is financed through Pennsylvania's share of the "Big Four" opioid settlement—agreements reached with major pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors as a result of multistate litigation. Governor Josh Shapiro, who spearheaded the investigation as Attorney General, has emphasized using these funds for evidence-based interventions that address the root causes of the crisis.
"These settlement dollars represent a solemn commitment to the families who have lost loved ones to addiction," Shapiro said. "Programs like WISE show that we're taking a comprehensive approach—reaching every community and every age group affected by this epidemic."
Pennsylvania is expected to receive more than $1 billion over 18 years from various opioid settlements, with funds divided between state and local governments. The state has established frameworks to ensure these dollars support prevention, treatment, and recovery services rather than being diverted to unrelated expenses.
Why Target Older Adults?
The focus on adults 55 and older reflects growing recognition that this population faces distinct challenges in the addiction landscape:
Polypharmacy risks: Older adults often take multiple medications for chronic conditions, increasing the risk of dangerous drug interactions and accidental overdose.
Social isolation: Retirement, loss of spouses and friends, and limited mobility can lead to isolation, which is both a risk factor for substance misuse and a barrier to seeking help.
Stigma and shame: Older adults may face intense stigma around addiction, viewing it as a moral failing rather than a medical condition, which can prevent them from seeking treatment.
Underdiagnosis: Healthcare providers and family members may miss signs of substance use disorder in older patients, attributing symptoms to aging or other health conditions.
Chronic pain: Managing chronic pain conditions common in older age can lead to long-term opioid use and potential dependence.
What Families Should Know
For families with older loved ones, the WISE program offers an important reminder to stay engaged and observant. Signs of substance misuse in older adults may differ from those in younger populations and can include:
- Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
- Increased confusion or memory problems
- Mood changes, including irritability or depression
- Frequent falls or unexplained injuries
- Multiple prescriptions from different providers
- Social withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities
Families are encouraged to have open, non-judgmental conversations about medication use and to accompany older relatives to medical appointments when possible. The WISE program also offers resources for family members seeking to support their loved ones.
Looking Ahead
The four-county pilot represents the first phase of what state officials hope will become a broader initiative. If successful, the WISE program could expand to additional counties and become a model for other states grappling with rising overdose rates among older populations.
"This is about saving lives, regardless of age," said Secretary Davis-Jones. "Addiction doesn't discriminate, and neither should our response. Every Pennsylvanian deserves access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support."
For Pennsylvania families affected by addiction, the WISE program adds another resource to a growing network of support services funded by opioid settlement dollars. As the state continues to allocate these funds, officials emphasize that comprehensive, evidence-based approaches—targeting all affected populations—offer the best path forward in addressing the ongoing crisis.
If you or an older loved one is struggling with substance use, help is available. Call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information.
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