NEW CASTLE (WOLF) — The Shapiro Administration has launched a new initiative aimed at reducing fatal overdoses among older Pennsylvanians, a demographic that has seen overdose deaths rise in recent years.
The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs and the Department of Aging announced Wednesday that they are rolling out the Wellness Initiative for Senior Education, or WISE, in four counties that have some of the highest overdose rates among residents age 55 and older.
Officials said the evidence-based program is designed to promote wellness, substance use prevention and education for older adults through local community partnerships and existing senior services networks.
The initiative is being funded through Pennsylvania’s share of opioid settlement dollars obtained through lawsuits against major opioid manufacturers and distributors. The settlements stemmed from a multistate investigation led by Gov. Josh Shapiro during his tenure as Pennsylvania attorney general.
According to state officials, the settlement agreements have generated billions of dollars nationwide to support addiction treatment, prevention and recovery programs. Much of Pennsylvania’s funding is distributed directly to counties for local projects.
“The WISE program reflects the Shapiro Administration’s shared commitment to health equity, improving health outcomes, and working together to better the lives of Pennsylvania’s older adults,” DDAP Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones said in a statement.
“Meeting people where they are is a cornerstone of our prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Partnering with local organizations and integrating this initiative into trusted systems already in place is key to providing effective, accessible prevention.”
State officials say older adults can face unique challenges related to substance use, including chronic pain, social isolation, grief, mental health concerns and interactions involving prescription medications.
The announcement was made in Lawrence County and included remarks from Lawrence County Area Agency on Aging Administrator Amy Cervone, DDAP Secretary Davis-Jones, Aging Secretary Jason Kavulich and Rev. Robert Fuller.
The administration said it hopes the program will help reduce overdose deaths while improving overall health and wellness outcomes for older Pennsylvanians.