Frequently Asked Questions

Silver Sobriety serves adult men and women aged 50+ who are seeking recovery from alcohol and/or drug dependency, are willing to engage in our program, and are physically and psychologically stable.

Because Silver Sobriety is not a traditional 30-day residential treatment program, you do not need a Rule 25 chemical health assessment to participate.

Clients participate in three, two-hour group sessions each week for a period of six to twelve months. Sessions are facilitated by a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) or other qualified leader. Clients also have access to a private, one-hour session as needed. After clients graduate, they are invited to stay involved and receive support in the Aftercare Group for as long as they want.

Yes! We have the option for in-person and virtual meetings. Some people do both.

Our approach is a model of recovery designed specifically for older adults, focusing on peer-to-peer recovery that is client-centered and accessible without insurance. Scholarships are available to those who may otherwise be unable to afford treatment.

No, Medicare only covers hospital-based programs. Scholarships are available to those who may otherwise be unable to afford treatment.

No, Silver Sobriety’s fees do not count as a Qualified Medical Expense through an HSA. Scholarships are available to those who may otherwise be unable to afford treatment.

Silver Sobriety was founded on the idea of removing barriers that prevent seniors from achieving and sustaining sobriety – including affordability. As a non-residential program, the cost is much lower than a typical 30-day, in-patient treatment program. The cost of treatment – without a scholarship – is $4,500 for up to a year. Scholarships are available to those who may otherwise be unable to afford treatment. Please contact us to learn more.

Scholarships are available for clients whose income falls below five times the Federal Poverty Guidelines (as updated periodically in the Federal Register by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the authority of 42 U.S.C. 9902(2)). We use Adjusted Gross Income from the most recent Federal Tax Return, and the number of Dependents listed on that form. Not included are capital gains or non-cash benefits (such as public housing, Medicaid, and food stamps). If no Federal Income Tax Return is available, then pay stubs or other forms of information may suffice, at the discretion of management.

Transportation is available for those living within a 15-mile radius of the Stillwater Area.

At its core, Silver Sobriety’s program uses the 12-Step facilitation program to approach addiction and recovery. Clients are exposed to each of the steps and many related topics over a six to twelve month period. We address the states of mind, body, and spirit as they relate to recovery, rehab, and good health for seniors. To support an understanding of the steps, Silver Sobriety teaches the disease concept, recovery process, relapse prevention, and physical and emotional self-care. While the words God and Higher Power are found in the steps, we do not require or promote any particular belief, beyond recognition that we ourselves are not the highest power in the universe. Each week, clients are provided with age-specific reading materials, recovery tasks and/or exercises to complete.

In 2016, of the 350 treatment centers in Minnesota, 140 programs were specific to adolescents – and two were geared toward seniors. In addition, most people don’t realize that Medicare does not cover treatment for older adults unless it’s hospital-based. In addition, seniors need to connect with their peers and work on issues unique to their age group. Older adults may not relate to younger people whose problems, life experiences, and drugs of choice are different from their own. We believe no matter your age, you can overcome substance abuse with the right support and resources.

Silver Sobriety allows seniors to assimilate information at a speed that is comfortable for them. Our content and support provide strategies that enable older adults to handle loss, depression, loneliness, cognitive difficulties, chronic pain, and grief. Left untreated, these emotional issues commonly experienced by seniors can lead to or aggravate chemical dependency problems.

It’s easy! Contact us to get the ball rolling, or feel free to call or email Pete at 651-890-2498 or petero@silversobriety.org.