Alcohol addiction or what was once called alcoholism can happen to anyone, young or old, but it can be much more dangerous for the elderly. Elderly alcohol abuse is not uncommon, and it often goes hand in hand with another problem, like depression or anxiety. Understanding some of the dangers of elderly alcoholism and what kind of help is available is key to healing.
Help for Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction can feel very lonely, and reaching out for help is challenging. However, there is a wide range of support and treatment available for alcohol addiction. Treatment ranges from therapy and medication to yoga, holistic therapies, and residential treatment.
Residential treatment can often be the best way to recover from alcohol addiction. In a residential treatment center, patients are removed from both the stressors that cause them to drink and the substance itself. Therefore, residential treatment is an excellent place for crisis management, intervention, and general recovery. Peer support can also be invaluable in overcoming alcohol abuse, and residential treatment offers plenty of chances to interact with others in similar situations.
Recovering from alcohol addiction is an ongoing process. A robust support system, both professionally and socially, is crucial. There are also many techniques available to help you or your loved one manage challenging emotions and triggers. An excellent therapist will teach these as part of your treatment.
Dangers of Elderly Alcohol Abuse
Elderly alcohol abuse comes with specific dangers. As the body ages, it becomes more sensitive to alcohol, and the overuse of the substance leads to many more health problems. Some of the risks of elderly alcohol abuse include:
- Balance issues leading to falls
- Worsening of ulcers and colitis
- Liver failure
- Stroke
- Increased risk of dementia
- Higher risk of diabetes
If you or a loved one already have diabetes, ulcers, or any other health conditions, alcohol will worsen them and put you at a much higher risk of serious complications. Alcohol also interferes with some medications, causing them to stop working, or reacting negatively and causing severe side effects.
Alcohol addiction has been linked to memory loss and can even cause a form of dementia known as alcoholic dementia. As we age, our memory declines, and alcohol abuse can create an even bigger memory problem than you had to begin with.
Another serious risk of elderly alcohol abuse is cardiac issues. Drinking increases your chance of heart disease and heart attack. Alcohol also affects the heart and circulatory system, lowering blood pressure and masking pain associated with a heart attack.
Nevertheless, if you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol abuse, help is available. Whether it’s addiction therapy, residential treatment, or something else, there is something out there that will work for you.
Oceanfront Recovery Center
Oceanfront Recovery Center is two blocks away from the Pacific ocean, creating a safe and beautiful space for you or your loved one to heal. We offer a wide range of treatment programs, such as:
- Anxiety treatment programs
- Heroin addiction treatment
- Benzodiazepine addiction treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Depression treatment programs
- Cocaine addiction treatment
With a firm belief in treating patients with compassion and determination, Oceanfront Recovery Center offers holistic therapies such as yoga and equine therapy to ensure your road to recovery is as smooth as possible.
We are experts in handling mental health problems, drug and alcohol addictions, and dual diagnoses. Our friendly intakes team is available to guide you through the admissions process and advise on finance. Oceanfront Recovery Center accepts most insurance policies, and we rely on only the most modern technology.
Elderly alcohol abuse can be challenging to overcome, but Oceanfront Recovery can help. Call us today on 877.279.1777.
