Alcohol misuse and abuse among the elderly

Alcohol consumption is on the increase. The elderly are particularly at risk to the effects of alcohol misuse and abuse, for a variety of reasons. Excessive and/or prolonged use of alcohol by the elderly can lead to somatic, psychologic, social, and other serious consequences. Alcohol misuse also can interfere with the successful management of some chronic diseases and heighten the risk of drug interactions and their effects. A profile of the elderly alcohol abuser is presented, as are several diagnostic cluses that should make recognition of the alcohol abuser easier for those who recommend and monitor drug therapy for the elderly.