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