title: Alcohol-related health problems in the elderly.
abstract: Alcohol misuse is common in the elderly, and the problem may be compounded by the body's reduced ability to metabolise ethanol and interactions with over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Older heavy drinkers are likely to present with mental health problems--anxiety, depression, dementia, confusion and sleep disturbance--or physical problems--gait disturbance, falls and liver disease. Alcohol use must be accurately assessed, and physical, neurological and mental state examinations performed. Treatment should be individualised, with the patient's needs being matched to the treatment options available.
authors.affiliation: Department of Drug and Alcohol Studies, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Whelan
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D003933:Diagnosis; D004347:Drug Interactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012307:Risk Factors