Family members may be the first to have concerns about a loved one who may be abusing alcohol and/or other drugs. But how can family members help? Often the drinker or pill user does not think he or she needs help and may resent the implication that they have a problem. For older adults, getting help can be very difficult, because older adults often do not ask for help and may resist their families’ efforts to get them help.

However, there are resources for families with concerns about their loved one who may have a substance abuse problem. Oftentimes, families may be able to help their loved one by learning about substance abuse for the older adult and possible resources for help.

Substance Abuse Risks, Effects & Recovery		Are You Concerned About a Loved One?
Retirement Loneliness Isolation Health problems Depression More...		Mood changes Defensive Isolation Loss of interest Low self esteem More...
Other Resources
Self Help Groups Personal Stories More...