Binge Drinking a Problem for Some Seniors

Q. My 76-year-old widowed father has always enjoyed socializing and that means parties where alcohol is served. It seems that he is drinking more and I am concerned. I’m worried about his drinking, especially this holiday season when there will be more opportunities. Should I be?

As a matter of fact, older adults who have alcohol dependence problems drink significantly more than do younger adults who have similar problems, a new study from Ohio State University has revealed. Those over age 60 drink more alcohol per drinking session and have more binge episodes than younger Americans.

Researchers found that adults over age 60 who have alcohol dependence drink more than 40 alcoholic drinks a week on average, compared with between 25 and 35 drinks a week on average for those in younger age groups with similar problems.

In addition, older people with alcohol dependence have more binge drinking episodes per month than do their younger counterparts.

The findings suggest that older problem drinkers may have developed a tolerance for alcohol and need to drink even more than younger abusers to achieve the effects they seek.

“A combination of high levels of drinking and the physiological effects of aging are particularly problematic for older adults,” said Linda Ginzer, co-author of the study and a doctoral student in social work at Ohio State.

Research has shown that Americans generally tend to drink less alcohol as they age. But these findings suggest that for certain groups of older adults – those with alcohol problems – alcohol use actually increases, Ginzer said.

Why not talk with your father about your concerns. You could start the conversation with, “Dad, I think it’s great that you have a social life, but I’ve noticed that you’ve gradually been drinking more, especially during the holidays. I’m concerned about your health and safety, and that of others. Can we talk about ways that we can ensure that you are O.K.?”

Home Instead Senior Care has a program called The 40-70 Rule, which provides help for talking with your adult parent about sensitive subjects. For more information, log on to www.4070talk.com.

To learn more information about Home Instead Senior Care, visit www.homeinstead.com/627.

For more information about the study, log on to http://www.addictioninfo.org/articles/3923/1/Older-Problem-Drinkers-Down-More-Alcohol-More-Often-than-Younger-Counterparts/Page1.html.

Holiday 911 for Family Caregivers

Q. My 85-year-old mother has always prepared the holiday meal, but she had a heart episode last month and will not be able to do that. It’s up to me this year. Do you have any tips on preparing dinner? I’m a little stressed out trying to care for her as well as plan a meal.

We’re no cooking experts, but we know who can help. Karen Blakeslee, a Kansas State University Research and Extension food scientist, answers about 1,500 food and food safety questions annually, shares frequently-asked questions and her answers about preparing a turkey dinner:

Q: How much turkey should I buy?

A: The general rule in buying a bone-in turkey is to allow one pound per person. If additional white meat is preferred, consider buying a larger turkey or an additional turkey breast.

Q: Is there a fast way to thaw a frozen turkey?

A: Consumers who may have forgotten to put the turkey in the refrigerator to thaw can use a cold-water method. Submerge the turkey (in its store wrap) in cold water in a clean, large sink or bathtub. Allow 30 minutes of thawing time per pound. Drain and replace cold water every 30 minutes during the thawing process.

Follow manufacturer’s instructions to thaw a smaller frozen turkey or turkey breast in a microwave oven. Thawing meat and poultry products in a microwave oven begins the cooking process, which will need to be continued immediately.

Q: What is the recommended roasting time and temperature? And, is it necessary to preheat the oven?

A: Set the oven at 325 degrees F and allow 20 minutes per pound. Add 45 minutes for a stuffed turkey and about 15-20 minutes for a turkey to set up after it has tested done (165 degrees F) to make carving easier. Keep the turkey covered during holding time. Roasting is a slow process, so it’s not necessary to preheat the oven.

You might need other help preparing your holiday feast as well. Why not consider hiring a Home Instead CAREGiver? The company’s CAREGivers can assist your senior loved one with meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands and shopping while you’re getting dinner ready.

For more food preparation tips from Kansas State University, log on to http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/news/story/turkey_dinner111809.aspx.

Seniors May Need Help Overcoming the Holiday Blues

While the holiday season is a time for parties and celebrations, it also can trigger the blues, especially for seniors who may think about lost loved ones or struggle with health or financial problems.

To help seniors cope with the melancholy that may accompany the holidays, the AGS Foundation for Health in Aging offers these tips:

• Get out and socialize or invite family and friends over. Ask family and friends for help traveling to parties and events
• Volunteer to help others, as this is a great mood lifter. Contact your local United Way or call local schools or religious organizations to ask about opportunities.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol, as it can lower your spirits.
• Accept the fact that there’s nothing wrong with not feeling jolly. Many people get the blues during the holidays.
• Talk to someone about your feelings. It can help you understand why you feel the way you do.
• Recognize the warning signs of depression. Holiday blues are usually temporary and mild, but depression is more serious and can linger unless you get help.

If an older loved one experiences sadness during the holidays, you can help:

• Invite them out and to get-togethers. Take into consideration any transportation needs or special diets.
• Lend a hand by offering to help with shopping or preparing for get-togethers in their home.
• Encourage them to talk about their feelings.
• Suggest they talk with a healthcare provider if you suspect depression.

For more information, see “Tips for Beating the Holiday Blues”.

CAREGivers should pay special attention their clients during the holiday season and offer help as needed to help them overcome the blues.