Does Mom have a drinking problem?

Posted By Maryann Porosky On SEPTEMBER 25,2018

Alcohol use is on the rise among older adults. And it's not easy to spot. Many of the signs resemble common problems of aging. And who wants to think that when Mom stumbles, for instance, it might be because of drink?! There's a lot of shame associated with drinking, so older adults—especially older women—often hide the activity.

Chronic drinking
About two-thirds of older adults with drinking problems have been drinking much of their lives. They've been "getting away with it." Or they may have stopped in middle age, and then relapse in late life.

Late-life triggers
The remaining one-third of older adult drinkers with a problem are people who may even have been teetotalers in their youth. Keep your eyes open! Even if Dad never seemed interested before, alcohol could be his "comfort" now. Loss makes elders particularly susceptible, for instance after the death of a spouse or a move to a new living situation. Pain or failing health are other common triggers. Even something as happy as retirement can pull the rug out, removing friendships, identity, and daily routines. With so much idle time, it's easy to fall into a drinking habit without realizing it. When one drink becomes two or three, it can lead to dependence.

Loss of meaning and purpose are huge culprits
Loneliness and isolation lead to depression and anxiety. Without social contacts, it's just too easy to "self-medicate" the emotional pain with alcohol. Older women generally, and men who have lost their partners, are especially vulnerable to drinking in later life.

Signs of a drinking problem

Unexplained falls and bruises
Moodiness, irritability
Poor sleep
Weight loss
Forgetfulness
Changes in appearance and hygiene
Increased secrecy, hiding bottles

In a follow-up blog post, we will describe constructive ways to raise this sensitive subject with your loved one, as well as things you can do to help him or her.

Are you worried?
Maybe this is a new issue. Or maybe your relative has been a lifelong drinker at no small expense to the family. As the northern New Jersey experts in family caregiving, we at Caring Choices know how delicate this issue can be. And sometimes even painful. Give us a call at 973-627-4087 to talk about the options. You don't have to face this alone.