Addiction affects people of all ages. In fact, up to 17% of adults aged 60 and older are affected by prescription drug and alcohol abuse.
When an elderly person has struggled with addiction, it can be difficult to get back on track financially. It may be more difficult to secure a job, find a home in Yuma, AZ, or manage debts that have accrued. Read on for some tips that can help with budgeting and money management as well as improve your credit and help you get a new job, so you can get back on your feet.
Finding a Job After Addiction
The first thing you need to do is figure out what your strengths are. If you have a past employment history, put together a resume that outlines the work you’ve done and relevant skills.
You’ll want to create a professional-looking resume. If you have difficulty using a word processor to create a document from scratch, you can use a template from Microsoft Office or search for one online. There are libraries of professionally designed resume templates; all you’ll need to do is add your information and select the appearance you prefer.
Do You Have to Disclose Your Addiction or Treatment?
You don’t have to disclose that you were or are in recovery. You can if you want, though. Be direct and explain the treatment you went through. Doing this to explain any gaps in employment and help employers understand your background.
Employers can’t discriminate against you during the hiring process (or at any time when you work at a company) because you’re protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act. This act applies to you when you’re involved in a rehabilitation or recovery program, as long as you’re not presently using alcohol or drugs. It also applies after you’ve completed rehabilitation, assuming you’ve remained sober.
Special Awareness: Age Discrimination
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission exists to protect you against age discrimination. If you’re not being hired simply due to being 40 years of age or older rather than an inability to do the job, speak up. You may have legal recourse.
Finding a Home After Addiction
Once you have a job in Yuma, it may be easier to get a home. With bad credit, you may need a co-signer or contact the local housing authority to find low-income or poor-credit housing. In the meantime, speak with your recovery service about halfway houses or sober living communities where you could live.
Budget Management After Addiction
Here are three helpful budget management tips once you find work.
- Pay in cash. Keep cash set aside for bills to keep track of your money.
- Set up auto withdrawals. Your bills will be paid on time, and your credit score will improve as a result.
- Live within your means. Keep your housing cost at 30% or less than your monthly income whenever possible.
These simple tips will help avoid financial issues as you build up your career.
You Can Become Financially Stable
Finding a job, getting a home, and balancing your income help as you recover from addiction. With the right approach, you can move forward with better financial stability. Visit Seniors in Sobriety to connect with your peers and learn more about staying sober as a senior
Article author: Teresa Greenhill – info@mentalhealthforseniors.com
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