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

Module Content Introduction Guidelines Starting the Conversation Discussing Other Sensitive Subjects Summary

Discussing Other Sensitive Subjects

Discussing personal issues such as sex or depression can be very difficult. Sometimes people are uncomfortable and don't know what to say. They may use alcohol or medications to cover up the feelings or worries they have. These problems are not always part of aging.

Unfortunately, doctors do not always bring up the sensitive issues on a patient's mind. Encourage older adults to talk with a doctor if they have a concern about any of the following issues. There may be a treatment that can help.

Sex

Older adults should not assume that problems with their sex life are due to old age. Medications as well as alcohol use can affect sexual function.

They could try saying "I have a personal question. I understand that this medication can affect my body in many ways. Will it affect my sex life?"

Incontinence

If older adults have problems controlling their bladder or bowels, encourage them to let the doctor know. There are a variety of ways that this can be treated.

They could try saying, "I am concerned about a change in my body. Several times I could not control my bladder. Could this be from the medication I am taking?"

Depression

It is normal to feel grief and mourning when one has a loss (be it a death, retirement, or loss of health). But late life does not have to be a time of continuing sadness. Encourage older adults to let their doctor know of major losses in their life, a lack of energy, a poor appetite, or trouble sleeping. These could be signs of medical depression for which good treatment is available. Depression can also be a side effect of current medication.

They could try saying, "This is difficult to say, but I just don't feel like myself lately. What can I do to feel better?"

Memory Problems

It is common to fear losing one's memory or ability to think. Confusion and memory loss can also be side effects of some medications. Encourage older adults to let the doctor know if they have problems remembering recent events or thinking clearly.

They could try saying, "Lately I am finding I get very confused when I..." Could this be a side effect from the medicine?

Family Problems

Under the stress of illness or major life changes, even strong families can have problems. Older adults can be more vulnerable to abuse and mistreatment.

If older people feel they are being mistreated in any way - physically, verbally, financially - encourage them to talk to the doctor. The doctor may be able to provide information and resources that can help them feel and be safe.

They could try saying, "This is difficult to talk about, but I feel mistreated at home."