CONTENTS

Table of Contents
Introduction

1. Overview
2. Alcohol
3. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications
4. Barriers to Recognizing Problems
5. Signs and Symptoms of Misuse
6. Talking About Sensitive Issues
7. Assessing a Problem
8. Preventing Misuse
9. Intervention and Treatment

Supplements
Resources

Alcohol, Medication and Older Adults
For Those Who Care About or Care for an Older Adult

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Misuse and Abuse

Physical

• Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol is removed
• Blackouts
• Increased tolerance to alcohol
• Memory or concentration problems
• Blurred vision
• Slurred speech
• Dehydration
• Malnutrition
• Fatigue
• Sleep problems
• Sexual problems

Mental and Emotional

• Denial of drinking
• Depression
• Anxiety and annoyance when asked about alcohol
• Persistent irritability
• Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts
• Hiding alcohol
• Confusion and disorientation
• Problems with family and friends

Lifestyle

• Morning drinking
• Neglect of home or pets
• Poor hygiene
• Drinking despite warnings
• Arrests for driving while drunk

Older adults may be unaware that the symptoms they are experiencing may result from prescription drug misuse or drug interactions. They may think their symptoms are part of growing older or a sign of disease.