Substance Abuse in Older Adults




 
 

7.How to Get Help
If you think you might have an alcohol or drug problem, first talk to your doctor. They can assess you, and help you find treatment if needed. Treatment usually works even better for older people than for younger ones.

 

8.What Families Can Do
If you’re worried about an older loved one’s use of alcohol or drugs, talk to them about it. Be direct, but be kind and don’t judge. They might not realize they need help. They may say they are fine. But encourage them to talk to their doctor. If that doesn’t work, consider asking their doctor, minister, or a longtime friend to approach them instead.