Older adults make up the fastest growing age group in Canada. With technological advancements and newly developed generations of medications, the general life expectancy has steadily increased over the last few decades. Along with longer life, comes added stresses and quality of life issues. Some older adults may feel the need to self medicate with alcohol and other drugs to get through the day.

Health Canada reports that 22% of seniors drink four or more times per week. Substance abuse can increase the risk of an older adult getting injured or becoming ill, especially if it is combined with the use of prescription medications. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk:

• Read the labels of your medications and follow the directions. Contact your local Pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your medications.
  
  
• Avoid alcohol and/or other drugs if your medication tells you to.  Mixing them puts you at greater risk of injury and illness.
  
  
• Follow Canada's Low-Risk Alcohol Drinking Guidelines. However, the following people should avoid alcohol use entirely
  
  
  • Anyone with certain health problems, such as liver disease or certain psychiatric illnesses
    
    
  • Anyone taking certain medications, such as sedatives or painkillers
    
    
  • Anyone with a personal or family history of a serious drinking problem.
    
    
  • Anyone operating a vehicle
    
    
  • Anyone who needs to be ALERT - at work, or when they are responsible for the safety of others
    
    
• Tell your Health Care Provider if you have any food or medication allergies
  
  
• It’s a good idea to keep track of side effects and let your Health Care Provider know immediately
  
  
• Clean out your medicine cabinet at least once a year
  
  
• Never lend your medication to friends or family. They should always see their own Health Care Professional before taking any medication
  
  
• Review your medication with your Health Care Professional annually

Check out these sites for more information about substance use for the older adult.

Local Resources:

• Tri County Addictions Services
  
  This is a community-based, non-profit organization that provides addiction services in Lanark, Leeds & Grenville counties.
  

Helpful Websites:

• DART (Drug and Alcohol Registry of Treatment)
  
  
• Help for Older People with Alcohol Problems, New York Times, May 18, 2004 (US)
  
  
• Seniors Well Aware Program
  
  
• Just for you: Seniors

For Older Adults & Caregivers:

• Medicines and You (US)
  
  
• The Right Mix
  
  Educational website for veterans, Dept of Veterans' Affairs (AU) (please note, this site refers to Australian Alcohol Guidelines, not the LRDGs)