Senior Alcoholism

Alcoholism is a problem that frequently goes overlooked in senior citizens. However, with the proper diagnosis and treatment, seniors suffering from the disease can recover and lead healthy and normal lives.

Frequency

• Statistics show where the problems lie

  Just over 8 percent of the population in the United States are alcoholics. Although the 65 and older age group accounts for the lowest percentage, alcoholism occurs in about 10 percent of people ages 60 and older, suggesting that the 60-to-65-year-old cohort may be at a very high risk.

Misdiagnosis

• A misdiagnosis is often a problem

  Alcoholism in seniors is frequently misdiagnosed as another symptom or problem associated with aging, such as depression. However, doctors and society in general are beginning to recognize alcoholism as an issue in what has been called the "hidden" population.

Medical dangers

• Medicine and alcohol can be a deadly combination

  Senior drinking should be carefully monitored. Herbal remedies, prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs mixed with alcohol can be harmful or deadly to seniors.

Reasons for the growing problem

• Some seniors drink to deal with the pain of a lost love

  Elderly people may drink frequently to deal with loneliness, depression or the death of one or several loved ones. Family members and counselors may be reluctant to help them because they feel the elderly should enjoy the time they have, or because they do not want to confront their own fears about aging.

Treatment

• Seniors can find help for their problem

  Seniors can check into any Alcoholics Anonymous group, or they can join a program targeted for their age bracket, such as Seniors in Sobriety.