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

• Be direct and specific as you focus on the effects of alcohol or medication on the health of the older adult.
• Speak slowly and simply, avoiding labels like "alcoholic" or "addict" when stating your concerns.
• If your efforts to help are met with resistance or anger, close the conversation and bring it up another time.
• Encourage older adults to speak to their doctor if they have personal concerns about sensitive issues like sex or family problems.

Source

Adapted from Hazelden's "How To Talk to an Older Person Who Has a Problem With Alcohol or Medications" and the National Institute on Aging's publication "Talking With Your Doctor: A Guide for Older People."