Substance Abuse in Elderly – Myth and Realities
Many people have misconceptions about the problems of substance abuse in older adults. Lack of correct information can prevent older adults from seeking and receiving help for these problems. Learning what is reality and what is myth can help improve the quality of life for you or someone you care about.
MYTH
Only older adults who consistently drink a lot of alcohol have an alcohol problem.
REALITY
The key point in determining a problem is how the alcohol affects the person’s health, function, and relationships with others. For example, in persons with medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, even one drink per day can be a problem.
MYTH
Over-the-counter medicines and alcohol can be used together safely.
REALITY
It is never safe to drink alcohol while taking medicine. Both prescription and over-the-counter medicines can intensify the effects of alcohol. This can be dangerous or even fatal. In addition, using medicines and alcohol together, even several hours apart, can change a drug’s effects. For example, the drug might now work.
MYTH
If alcohol and medication misuse were a problem, the doctor would tell the older adult.
REALITY
Unfortunately, many doctors and other health professionals do not ask questions about the use of alcohol with medications. Therefore, older adults are at risk for harmful interactions of alcohol with medications. It is important for them to let their doctor know what drugs they are taking and how they use alcohol.
Source: SAMHSA – Get Connected: Linking Older Americans with Medication, Alcohol and Mental Health Resources. HHS Pub. No (SMA) 03-3824
Also see: Safe Use of Alcohol and Medications
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