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

Introduction

Learning about the prevention of alcohol and medication misuse is important. It allows older adults to meet the challenges of life events by supporting healthy behaviors. Prevention could be as simple as:

• Identifying and promoting healthy lifestyles
• Teaching others about the dangers of alcohol and medication misuse in older adults
• Connecting people with new information and resources
• Creating alternatives to alcohol and prescription drug use
• Providing problem solving skills to cope with difficult situations
• Making a commitment to healthy aging