Alcoholism is an illness that poses several threats to an older adult. It affects them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Drinking as you age can cause dementia, liver disease and other severe conditions. Alcohol in large doses can also take a toll on mental facilities and lead to poor judgment.
To help your aging parent overcome alcoholism, look for Oregon’s top trusted alcohol rehab center – standard. You must also be a source of support for them by starting with the best nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and lots of encouragement. Read on to learn how to help an aging parent overcome alcoholism.
Signs of Alcoholism In the Elderly
Alcoholism affects 5.7 million older adults (50+) and their families. It’s a serious health problem that can be difficult to recognize in older people, who may hide their drinking or have other health problems that mask the effects of alcohol abuse.
The following are signs of alcoholism in an aging parent:
- They lose interest in hobbies, friends, or activities they used to enjoy.
- They have unexplained bruises or other injuries.
- Their memory seems to be getting worse.
- They’re falling more often than usual and seem unsteady on their feet when walking.
- They seem to prefer drinking alone and often have excessive alcohol in their system at any given time.
- They have more than one drink a day.
- They drink to forget worries and manage depression.
- Slurred speech.
- Their skin, breath and clothes smell of alcohol.
- They change their behavior to irritable, aggressive and unreasonable.
Dangers of Alcoholism to the Elderly
Alcohol abuse among the elderly does affect not only the drinker but also the people around them. Some of the dangers of alcoholism are:
- Alcohol abuse can lead to physical and mental health issues, like depression and Alzheimer’s, and problems with relationships, employment and finances.
- Alcoholism can cause serious health problems such as liver damage, stroke, and heart disease.
- Regular alcohol use may also cause memory loss and dementia.
- Alcohol abuse in the elderly can affect their ability to walk or perform simple tasks such as bathing or cooking meals without help from other family members or caregivers; it may also increase their risk of falling stairs or injuring themselves.
How Do You Help Your Aging Parent from Alcoholism?
First, talk to them about their alcohol use. Depending on your relationship with your aging parent, this could be in person or over the phone. It’s essential to be sensitive when discussing alcohol use with your parent. If you’re angry or upset, it’s best not to discuss it until you’ve calmed down. You should also avoid accusing your parent of being an alcoholic or telling them they have an addiction problem. Instead, focus on the fact that you’re concerned about their health and want them to be safe in their old age.
If your parent disagrees with your concerns about alcohol use, ask them what they think would help solve this problem. You can try some of their suggestions before bringing up any further concerns. If you’re having trouble getting through to your parent about their drinking, consider getting professional help. A therapist or counselor specializing in addiction can provide support and advice that might make all the difference.
How Do You Approach a Conversation with Your Parent about Alcoholism?
Suppose you’re concerned about your parent’s drinking habits and want to initiate a conversation. In that case, remember that the timing of the discussion is just as important as the content.
- Ensure no one is intoxicated when you bring up the subject. If you do this while your parent is drunk, you’ll have difficulty getting them to listen to your concerns and take action.
- Ensure you are calm and compassionate when you bring up the subject. Your parents may be defensive if they feel like they’re being criticized or judged. Instead, approach them with love and care and ask them how they’re doing in general. Then, once they’ve opened up to you, let them know that you’ve noticed they’ve been drinking more often than usual lately.
- Start your conversation by saying, “I just wanted to check in with you on how you’re doing.
- Highlight what makes you worry about their drinking.
- Finally, listen to their response and ensure they understand where you’re coming from.
There are reasons why people drink alcohol. While some may drink because they don’t know what else to do, others drink in response to stress or grief. Whatever the case, alcoholism is still a disease that requires help to overcome. Fortunately, there are many ways in which concerned family members can help an alcoholic loved one get the treatment they need. An alcoholic can learn to enjoy life without using alcohol as a crutch with proper support.
Read more interesting articles at organisedeveryday