Alcohol Abuse and the Elderly: Research Paper

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5%, and 7% of patients had an alcohol-related discharge diagnosis (Ganry, Joly, Queval, & Dubreuil, 2002). Both studies indicate alcohol abuse in elderly populations, however additional studies are needed to examine the general nature of the problem.

Alcohol abuse is not the only misdiagnosed and mistreated diagnosis suffered by the elderly. There is also growing concern regarding drug use, notably prescription drug use. The elderly is considered one of the highest-risk groups for prescription drug abuse, including the abuse of sedatives and anti-anxiety medications (Jinks, & Raschko, 1990). The rate of abuse of prescription drugs is indicated at a greater rate than alcohol due to over-medication and self-medication for chronic illnesses (D'Archangelo, 1993). Risk factors for drug abuse are similar to alcohol abuse, and include living situation, martial status, and illness, among other factors. Addressing abuse of both drugs and alcohol abuse in the geriatric population needs to become an essential part of health assessment to provide these individuals with adequate care.

Alcohol abuse is a significant medical problem that is capable of affecting any individual regardless of age. Elderly individuals who abuse alcohol are considered the hidden population due to their symptoms mimicking the similar symptoms of aging, which often leads to misdiagnosis.

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Elderly individuals can misuse alcohol as a means to emotionally cope and manage pain. Risk factors for excessive alcohol use include loneliness, retirement, death and loss, poor health and chronic discomfort. These risk factors are consequences of aging and often leave symptoms of alcoholism to be undetected. Family members can also be ashamed to address the issue, and the elderly can be less willing to seek treatment. This rapidly growing age group will inevitably increase incidence of alcohol abuse, and increase the need for treatment. There is also more concern with the baby-boom generation, as these individuals are potentially more willing to use drugs and alcohol. Although some case studies have been performed, large-scale research projects are needed to quantify the number of elderly individuals suffering from alcohol problems. Equally concerning to alcohol abuse is the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs. The patterns of substance abuse cannot continue to be ignored as the hidden elderly population can soon be faced with alcohol abuse rates of epidemic proportions......

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