Some loss could trigger drinking in elderly

Last week we looked at the problem is substance abuse among the elderly. Many authorities divide use of alcohol in the elderly into two separate groups. Approximately two-thirds are often referred to as "early-onset" alcohol abusers and have abused alcohol during most of their lives. The other approximate one-third of older alcohol abusers are referred to as "late-onset" abusers. Their problem often begins after a loss or starts after retirement. They are looking for an escape from a painful experience which has occurred later in life. The loss of a spouse often triggers an increase in consumption of alcohol.

Prevention for the late onset group should include discussions and counseling about the stresses that occur in the later years of life. Planning activities which may decrease loneliness and which may concentrate on helping others such as community volunteerism has proven to be very effective as has groups which initiate new friendships and assemble individuals with similar experiences and problems.

The United States Department of Health and Human Services defines moderate drinking as no more than one drink a day for most women and no more than two drinks a day for most men. A standard drink is generally considered to be twelve ounces of beer, five ounces of wine, or one ounce of eighty proof distilled spirits. Each of these contains roughly the same amount of alcohol.

Some of the reasons that elderly individuals drink include:

• Loneliness (widowers over age sixty-five are at particularly high risk)

• Boredom (often as a result of not being able to do the things that they had been able to in the past)

• Habit (they have used alcohol all their lives, but now they have more time and are less accountable to employers, etc.)

• Physical pain

• Depression

• Grief over losses (material, status, or loss of loved ones)

• Money worries (reduced income after retirement)

• Stress

• Peer pressure (especially in some retirement communities)

• Feelings of uselessness and being unneeded

One other significant factor in the elderly's use of alcohol is the interaction of other required and/or prescribed drugs. Drugs often intensify the older person's reaction to alcohol, leading to rapid intoxication. Alcohol can often interfere with the effectiveness of the needed drug. Anytime an elderly person uses drugs they should consult with their physician and/or pharmacist for information concerning interaction of medications. The good news is that help and preventive measures are available and the elderly should seek assistance.