79.Though it may be a surprise to many, the misuse of medications may be the most common form of drug abuse among the elderly. DKenneth Schrader of Duke University, North Crolina states that although the elderly represent about 13% of the US population, those aged 65 and over account for the consumption of one third of all drugs. People in this age group use medications roughly three times more than the general population and have poorer compliance with instruction for use. In another study of elderly patients admitted to treatment programs, 70% were women who had overused medicines.