Drug addiction and alcoholism can effect many older Americans and seniors, and this issue continues to grow as each year passes. Seniors who are covered by Medicare, an insurance plan funded through the federal government for Americans in this age bracket, can use their Medicare benefits to receive treatment services for substance abuse at a wide variety of substance abuse rehabilitation programs around the country. Medicare covers both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation facilities, and seniors who are in need of treatment can consult with their primary care physician to choose a treatment program covered by Medicare which would be suitable for them.