April 04, 2014
In 2014, the last of the Baby Boomer generation will turn 50 years old. While this group of individuals is still young and spry, they are all collectively getting older. Ultimately, at some point in the future, Boomers will need nursing home care. However, compared to the current generation of elderly people in nursing homes (aged 60 and over), Boomers have a higher rate of substance abuse, particularly alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is already a problem in the elderly population, which will only get worse as the Boomers move into nursing care facilities.
The Current Generation of Nursing Home Residents
Of the current generation of elderly people in nursing homes, over 60% drink alcohol, with 6% being considered “heavy drinkers.” Heavy drinking is characterized by consuming more than two standard drinks per day, with a standard drink being defined as 1.5 ounces of spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer. Elderly individuals have a lower tolerance for alcohol due to liver impairments, decreased metabolism, and overall age. Risk factors for alcohol abuse in old age include having a history of alcohol abuse, having a family history of abuse, abuse of nicotine, and the use or abuse of psychoactive drugs. Being male also increases the risk of alcohol abuse, as does the loss of a loved one, such as a spouse or life-long friend, and other major life changes.
Compared to Boomers
The aging of the Boomer generation raises concerns because of its size and its different attitudes toward aging, lifestyle, and alcohol use compared to current nursing home residents. Many in this group view themselves as staying young and may be less likely to recognize the effects of aging, along with having higher rates of alcohol use that can carry into long term care, and Illinois elder abuse attorneys for nursing homes can help address issues when these factors lead to neglect or harm.
Challenges in Diagnosing Alcohol Abuse in the Elderly
Alcohol abuse among older adults often goes undiagnosed for several reasons. This gap leaves residents without support when help is needed. Families seeking personal injury services in Illinois often raise concerns after harm appears. Alcohol abuse leads to mental health issues and depression. Detection fails when a person denies the issue, hides symptoms, or staff attribute warning signs to another condition.
- Denial. Oftentimes, the abuser is in denial, as is his or her family, about the alcohol abuse.
- Hiding the problem. The abuser may actively engage in efforts to hide his or her alcohol problem from nursing staff, family, and doctors.
- Hard to distinguish depression from alcohol abuse. Mood changes and other social signs of alcohol abuse are difficult to detect since these indications can mistakenly be attributed to aging in general.
If you are in need of a nursing home abuse or neglect attorney, please not hesitate to contact the attorneys at The Rooth Law Firm either online or by phone at (847) 869-9100.
