Alcohol Abuse in Older Adults

Although it is widely believed that alcohol consumption reduces as one ages, alcohol abuse, and conditions arising due to it, pose a serious threat to the health of our seniors. With the continuous increase in the population of baby boomers, alcohol abuse needs to be taken up more seriously by both family members and healthcare providers.

Numerous studies carried out over the years have shown that alcohol consumption in seniors can go up based on certain factors, such as depression, loss of a loved one, and loneliness. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2010), 40% of elders aged 65 and above consumed alcohol. In a Mayo Clinic alcohol treatment program, 41% of people over the age of 65 said their problems with alcohol began after they turned 60. Therefore, it’s important to notice the signs of symptoms of alcoholism in seniors and help them get over it before it creates major health issues.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse in Seniors

Many family members and caregivers often find it difficult to notice the signs of alcohol abuse. A lot of people drink alcohol moderately throughout their lives, and this makes it difficult to ascertain when a person starts abusing alcohol. If you find yourself in doubt on whether or not your elderly is battling alcoholism, the below-mentioned signs by The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) can help.

• Using alcohol as an escape route from sadness, worries, and loneliness
• Lack of apetite
• Lying about the amount of alcohol consumed
• Gulping drinks one after another
• Feeling irritable and anxious when not drinking
• Lack of any social activity and a constant urge to have a drink

Effect of Alcohol Abuse in Seniors

Alcohol abuse can cause a number of health conditions in the elderly. It can also worsen any existing medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Mentioned below are a few potential effects of alcohol abuse in seniors.

• Alcohol abuse can cause liver damage and immune system disorders.
• It can increase the risk of trips and falls.
• It can worsen any existing medical conditions, such as ulcers and high blood pressure.
• It can interfere with the central nervous system and cause permanent brain changes.
• It can make diagnosis of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s difficult.

Alcohol & Medicines

Alcohol interferes with both over-the-counter medications and prescription drugs. In fact, many medicines pose a significant threat to the body when combined with alcohol. Mentioned below are some examples of the potential health effects caused by mixing alcohol and medications.

• Liver damage — alcohol and acetaminophen (painkiller)
• Intestinal bleeding — alcohol and aspirin
• Nausea or drowsiness — alcohol and anti-allergy medication
• Alcohol mixed with anti-depressants can be potentially fatal

Seeking Help

If you think your senior is showing signs of alcohol abuse, it’s important you seek help immediately. Having a word with the doctor or caregiver about the right approach to treatment can be a good way to get started. To help the senior tide over his/her emotional problems, you can schedule a meeting with a counselor. Local support groups can also help your senior to cut back or quit drinking.

Whether you are a family member or an elderly care service provider, you can play an important role in the recovery of your seniors. By keeping them active and encouraging them to pursue their hobbies, you can help them develop interests that do not involve drinking. Talking to them about their issues and how they are feeling can also help you get an insight about their emotional health. With a sustained effort, seniors can enjoy their lives and get "high" naturally! Concluding, we hope that the information presented in this article is beneficial to you.

Five years ago, Andrew Martin got an opportunity to work at a Home Care Assistance franchise and he immediately accepted the offer. Today, his office provides reliable and affordable home care services in the Greater Toronto Area.