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

• Learning about the dangers of alcohol and medication misuse can improve and extend the lives of older adults.
• Encourage older adults to learn about the medicines they take by asking questions of their doctor and pharmacist.
• Understanding the particular situation and problems of the older adult you care for can help prevent or reduce the possibility of alcohol and prescription drug misuse.
• Several medication management tools are available to help older adults track when to take which medication.