Already a flashing yellow light in 2017, alcohol and drug use by older adults increased significantly during the pandemic. Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for dementia. And misuse of prescription medications, opiates, and other substances can pose a risk for drug interactions, with risks of severe adverse repercussions. This session will explore the economic, public health, and societal ramifications of this increase in substance use among elderly Americans. Experts will review opportunities for the financial, social services, and public health sectors to mitigate worrisome downstream consequences of surreptitious substance abuse.