WHAT SHOULD THE OLDER ADULT KNOW ABOUT SUBSTANCE USE/ABUSE?
Even small amounts of alcohol can worsen some health conditions such as diabetes, heart or blood pressure problems, liver or stomach conditions. Older adults are usually more sensitive to the effects of mood altering substances. Alcohol reduces alertness, co-ordination, judgment and reaction time increasing the risk of falls or accidents. Older adults are prescribed tranquillizers and sleeping pills more readily than younger adults. Using alcohol in conjunction with these medications can be deadly. Older adults are more likely to use prescribed and over-the-counter medications at the same time. Older adults are affected by different life issues and stressors than younger people. These issues must be addressed during the counselling process.
