Alcohol Abuse and Self-Neglect in the Elderly

SUMMARY: Approximately 1% to 3% of elderly in the United States suffer from the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. Many more drink amounts of alcohol that place them at risk for alcohol-related problems. Alcoholism is thought to be a significant contributor to the etiology of self-neglect among older adults. Affected individuals can suffer from malnutrition, develop chronic health problems, acquire unintentional injuries, become depressed, neglect their health care needs, and isolate themselves from friends and family. Premature death can result. Professionals who provide services to elderly people with alcohol-related problems have a critical role to play by screening these individuals for an alcohol use disorder and encouraging them to participate in treatment. Identification of and intervention for an alcohol use disorder may contribute to the prevention of self-neglect among older adults.