Alcohol Abuse and Older Adults
The rate of alcohol abuse among older adults in this country is rising at an alarming rate. Some turn to alcohol to ease the
pain of loneliness after the death of a spouse. Or to forget about their deteriorating health or physical well-being. No matter
the reason, alcohol abuse and older adults don't mix. Drinking large quantities of alcohol is especially dangerous to seniors
because it can make them more prone to falls and accidents. The older we get, the less alcohol our bodies can tolerate.
Warning Signs of Later-Life Alcoholism
- Avoiding interaction
- Secretive behavior
- Confusion, disorientation
- Dementia
- Combative, defensive behavior
- Increase in falls or accidents
- Denial about drinking problem
- Sneaking drinks
What you Can Do to Help
If you or a loved one is abusing alcohol, don't wait for the problem to go away. Get help now.
Belmont Behavioral Health is a regional leader in treating alcohol abuse. We offer programs tailored specifically for the
older adult, such as Senior Recovery in our partial hospitalization/intensive outpatient programs.
For more information about Belmont Behavioral Health's alcohol addiction services for older adults, call 1-800-220-HELP (4357) or 215-877-2000.
