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There are many possible signs that can indicate that a loved one or
family member may be experiencing a substance abuse problem. These
signs may be rather subtle or quite obvious at times. Sometimes a family
sharing their observations or concerns with their loved one can help
their family member see that it may be time for a change. The following
are some common substance abuse signs for older adults that concerned
families should know about:
- Mood changes – Irritable, depressed, mood swings
- Defensive about their use of alcohol or other drugs (e.g., getting
angry, denying or underplaying their use, blaming others for their
use, etc.)
- Isolation – Keeping to themselves, not getting out of the home,
and avoiding family or friends—particularly in the evening
- Loss of interest in their hobbies and social or recreational
activities
- Low self esteem – Not feeling good about themselves, lacking “purpose”
- Poor hygiene – Failure to bathe or house clean
- Disrupted sleep
- Poor concentration
- Memory problems – including alcoholic blackouts
- Loss of coordination – Unsteady walk or falls, accident
prone
- Concealing alcohol – Hiding bottles of alcohol or hiding
alcohol in non-alcohol containers or beverages
- Tolerance changes – An increase or decrease in the amount
of alcohol (or other drug) it takes to achieve the same effect
- Loss of control – Using more alcohol or pills than intended
- Withdrawal symptoms – Tremors or other physical symptoms,
cravings to drink or use pills, anxiety, etc.
©2004 Chelsea Hospital Older Adult Recovery Center. All Rights Reserved.
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