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

Summary

• Common definitions of alcohol and medication abuse do not always apply to older adults.
• A common sign of alcohol abuse is irritability and anxiety, particularly when asked about alcohol use.
• Observing an older adult worrying excessively about having enough pills, to the extent that other activities revolve around the medication schedule, may be a warning sign of medication misuse.
• Sudden changes in mood, energy, or concentration may be symptoms of over-the-counter drug misuse or abuse.