Signs & Symptoms of Alcoholism in the Elderly

Signs and symptoms of alcoholism in the elderly can sometimes be missed. Elderly people who are alcoholics are more prone to falls, and liver disease. The incidence is higher among elderly men, and 3-9 percent of people over age 65 have more than two drinks daily.
There are signs and symptoms to look for that can lead to detection of alcoholism among elders.

Recognition

Elders who experience alcoholism are usually in denial. Observing behaviors closely that may be otherwise associated with the effects of aging can help families and physicians detect signs and symptoms of alcoholism in the elderly population. Often, the first indication of alcoholism in the elderly is repeated falls.

Considerations

Alcoholism in the elderly is considered riskier because it can exacerbate existing health problems, such as heart failure and high blood pressure, in addition to interfering with prescription medication use. More than three drinks per day or seven alcoholic beverages in one week are considered unhealthy for elders, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and American Geriatrics Society (AGS).
Alcohol has a greater impact on elders than it does on our younger population.

Types

Alcoholism in the elderly can develop early. Other older adults drink unhealthy amounts of alcohol in response to stress, or depression; developing patterns of drinking later in life. Elderly men who live alone are more prone to alcohol abuse than women are, as are whites. Higher educational status has been associated with excessive alcohol consumption among the elderly.

Identification

Drinking and driving, passing out, mood changes, and continuing to drink despite health complications and potential dangers are signs and symptoms of alcoholism in the elderly.
Other warning signs of alcoholism among elders include frequent falls, confusion, and self-neglect.

Lending Support

If you suspect an elder is having difficulty controlling alcohol consumption, offer support, and maintain a non-judgmental attitude. Signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse in the elderly may be difficult to recognize, and are often attributed to other causes associated with aging. Many elders hide signs of alcoholism from family and loved ones.