Hello.  My name is Jane, and My Mother is an Alcoholic

It may be quite surprising to you to realize that your elderly mother or another senior in your life has come to abuse alcohol.  After all, none of us plan to become alcoholics when we grow up and many of us take great pains to avoid the devastation of this disease.  However, if you find yourself wondering if Mom or Dad is drinking too much, know that you are not alone.  Research shows that alcoholism among seniors is a silent epidemic on the rise, one study reporting that 17% of those over 65 abuse alcohol.¹

The reasons the elderly may abuse alcohol vary but often include depression and the loneliness many seniors face at an age when they may have outlived their spouses and close friends.  Retirement can also have an impact, increasing a senior’s sense of isolation and lack of purpose in life.  Often, seniors who abuse alcohol are unable to adjust to changes in their lives due to aging and turn to alcohol to combat feelings of sadness and grief.

It is important to talk to the senior in your life regarding the dangers of drinking too much alcohol.  An honest, open line of communication regarding their happiness and mental state is key.  If you suspect your elderly loved one is battling loneliness and isolation, talk to them about things they can do that interest them.  Many seniors lead happy active lifestyles after retirement, and even after the loss of a beloved spouse.  Some travel, others volunteer, join garden and book clubs or participate in other activities.  For those who cannot be that active, having a Comfort Keeper^® spend time with your senior may help combat some of the loneliness that can lead to alcohol abuse.

Also, discuss the dangers that alcohol consumption may pose for the elderly. During the normal aging process, liver and kidney function may decline, metabolic rates can change, and blood flow may slow – all of which can cause negative effects on the body’s ability to process alcohol.  Sometimes, just a drink or two can cause seniors to become lightheaded or even drunk, causing falls and other accidents. In fact, some early warning signs your elderly loved one may be  consuming too much alcohol are frequent falls and injuries.

Alcohol use may intensify illnesses that seniors have, such as low blood pressure, diabetes and depression.  Some medicine is weakened when combined with alcohol, which can cause dire complications regarding life-sustaining medications.  Mixing any amount of alcohol with some medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, can cause adverse effects, furthering the risk of additional illness or injury.

Knowing these facts may help seniors decide to limit their intake of alcoholic beverages or not drink them at all. During your talks, share the statistics of seniors who abuse alcohol.  Let them know they are not alone and there are help groups designed for their ages that offer support as well as a successful road to recovery and the happiness they deserve in their golden years.