Alcohol Awareness Month Puts Spotlight on Addiction in Aging Population

Alcohol Awareness Month arrives each April with a clear message: it's time to have honest conversations about drinking. For millions of Americans, alcohol use disorder (AUD) isn’t just a concern—it’s a daily reality. And while public attention often focuses on teens or young adults, more older adults are quietly struggling with alcohol and drug misuse.

If you think this can’t happen in retirement—or inside a care facility—you need to take another look.

According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 28.9 million Americans aged 12 and older were living with AUD. That includes a rising number of people in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s.

“Older adults are often overlooked when it comes to substance use,” said Dr. George Koob, director of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

But aging doesn’t make someone immune—if anything, their bodies are more vulnerable.

Why Older Adults Are at Risk for Substance Use

As you or your loved one’s age, physical and emotional changes can increase the risk of alcohol or prescription drug misuse:

• Chronic pain and declining mobility
• Anxiety, depression, or grief after losing a spouse or friends
• Increased isolation and loneliness
• Less supervision or accountability—especially in long-term care settings

Unlike younger adults, seniors may metabolize alcohol more slowly, making its effects stronger and more dangerous.

Some residents in senior communities quietly drink alone or misuse their prescriptions. Their families assumed everything was fine—but staff has to intervene.

Substance Use Can Continue in Long-Term Care

You might think that once a parent is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, problems with alcohol or medication misuse are over. But that’s not always true.

Some long-term care facilities lack proper screening or staff training. Others may have policies that allow alcohol use without close monitoring.

Don’t assume your loved one is protected just because they’re in a care setting. Stay involved. Ask questions. Review care plans.

When searching for caregivers or long-term care facilities, use the LTC News Caregiver Directory. Be sure to ask how they educate both staff and residents about alcohol misuse and what steps they take to promote awareness and prevention.

What You Can Do to Raise Awareness This April

This month is your opportunity to be part of the solution. Here are practical ways to get involved:

1. Talk About It

• Ask loved ones about their drinking habits.
• Bring up mental health and stress in everyday conversations.
• Don’t wait for a crisis—talk now.

2. Share on Social Media

• Post facts, infographics, or personal stories using #AlcoholAwarenessMonth.
• Challenge friends to go alcohol-free for a week.
• Encourage discussions, not shame.

3. Partner With Local Groups

• Ask bars or restaurants to offer alcohol-free specials.
• Work with wellness centers to promote healthy alternatives.
• Team up with rehab programs to host events or fundraisers.

4. Reach the Next Generation

• Help organize school assemblies, art contests, or PSAs on responsible choices.
• Support youth programs focused on mental health and resilience.

5. Distribute Awareness Materials

• Hand out brochures at libraries, gyms, coffee shops, or senior centers.
• Create materials focused on seniors and alcohol risks.

6. Share Real Stories

• If you’ve faced alcohol issues or recovery, speak out.
• Record a video or blog post.
• Real experiences reduce shame—and save lives.

7. Host Informational Sessions or Workshops

• Host educational sessions at local schools or workplaces to raise awareness about alcohol use and addiction.
• Invite healthcare professionals, recovery advocates, or individuals with lived experience to speak.
• Make sessions interactive to engage participants and reinforce key messages.
• Distribute themed wristbands, silicone bracelets, or shirts as take-home reminders of the event and its message.

8. Radio/TV, Podcasts

• List local area radio, TV shows, and podcasts and encourage them to discuss the issue.
• Invite yourself as a guest to discuss your personal or family experience.
• Promote the program on your social media.

Don't Wait for a Wake-Up Call

If your loved one is showing signs of confusion, withdrawal, poor hygiene, or changes in sleep or mood, don’t chalk it up to age alone. These could be symptoms of alcohol or medication misuse.

It’s not about blame—it’s about care.

Families often wait too long to intervene. You don’t need to wait for a fall, a hospital trip, or a financial crisis to take action.

National Helplines & Support Services

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

This resources offers referrals for treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.

• Phone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• Website: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline
• Notes: Available 24/7, free, and confidential

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

This resource provides research, fact sheets, and tools like the Alcohol Treatment Navigator to help older adults and caregivers find appropriate care.

• Website: www.niaaa.nih.gov

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

AA is a global support group with local chapters offering peer-led recovery meetings. Many groups now offer online meetings for accessibility.

• Website: www.aa.org

National Council on Aging (NCOA)

This resource offers information and programs specific to older adults, including guidance on healthy aging, mental health, and substance misuse.

• Website: www.ncoa.org

Eldercare Locator (U.S. Administration on Aging)

This resource connects older adults and caregivers to local services, including counseling, addiction recovery, and caregiver support.

• Phone: 1-800-677-1116
• Website: www.eldercare.acl.gov

Partnership to End Addiction (formerly Center on Addiction)

This organization offers support and guidance for families, including information on alcohol misuse among older populations.

• Website: www.drugfree.org

Final Thoughts

Substance use among older adults is real. It’s growing. And it's often missed. You have the power to make a difference this April—and every day after. Ask the hard questions. Offer your support. Choose care that protects the whole person.

Aging doesn’t mean silence. Speak up, stay informed, and be ready to act.