With elderly drinking issues on the rise, communities around the nation are adopting preventative initiatives to help raise awareness. There are several rehabilitation alternatives available, ranging from specialist treatment centers to support groups geared to the requirements of older persons.
If you feel that your mother or father has an alcohol problem, it’s time to speak out. Here’s what you can do to encourage your aging parents to drink less alcohol.

Look out for Signs of Alcoholism

People frequently think twice about giving up their independence or seeking help as they get older. This can make detecting a problem, such as alcoholism, difficult. As a result, it’s critical to be vigilant of any signs of alcoholism in this population.

These are some examples:

Insomnia, restlessness, or other sleep-related issues
Sudden behavioral changes, such as becoming irritated or aggressive
Strong alcohol odor on the breath, clothing, or skin
Isolation from family, friends, and leisure activities
Unknown causes of bruising and wounds on the arms or legs
Coordination failure
Memory issues

Have a Conversation with Your Aging Parent

Before contacting a parent about their alcohol intake, take the time to prepare and organize your ideas. Make a list of specific occasions when their drinking puts them or people around them in danger. Driving under the influence, an injury caused by the effects of alcohol, or increasing health concerns are some instances.

Maintain focus and patience during your conversation with your mother or father. Remember that talks are two-way streets, so allow them the opportunity to express themselves. If you are afraid that the conversation may go off subject or turn angry, seek the assistance of an alcohol counselor. These specialists can serve as a facilitator of healthy, effective dialogues regarding your problems.

If your aging parent refuses to seek immediate assistance, try not to become irritated or angry with them. It is common for older folks to be in denial about their drinking habits, and it might take time for them to change their ways. Your ongoing encouragement and support might motivate them to quit drinking.

Search for Support Systems

When your aging parent decides to receive the treatment they need and deserve, it’s critical that they have a strong support system to keep them going through the good and difficult times. Begin by investigating treatment facilities with your mother or father and discussing which aspects of the rehabilitation program are most essential to them. They may choose certain facilities or wish to participate in specialist therapy.

Other ways you might assist your parent during therapy and recovery include:

Participating in alcohol treatment sessions to understand how to promote sober habits
Calling or visiting them in the rehabilitation center
Giving them a shoulder to cry on or an ear to listen when they are in need
Attending family support group sessions as a family
Creating an alcohol-free atmosphere for them to return home
Finding new interests and things to do together

Lead a Worry-free Retirement Lifestyle at TerraBella Southern Pines

Our retirement community may be ideal for you or a loved one who values independence yet needs support with daily tasks. We provide dual living options, including resident-focused Assisted Living as well as our specialized style of Memory Care. We also provide customizable care plans and services that encourage freedom while still providing assistance with personal care, medical requirements, and daily living tasks as needed.