HomeMy WebLinkAboutHuron Expositor, 2007-01-03, Page 7•
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The Huron Expositor • January 3, 2007 Page 7
Alcohol and prescription drugs a dangerous mix
Most older adults take medication, like
prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs and
herbal remedies. If you do, and drink alco-
hol, you could be putting your health at
risk.
You probably take medications the way
your health care provider says you should.
However, have you forgotten to take them
now and then, or taken more than is pre-
scribed?
Have you told your health care provider
• about all the medications you are taking?
• Sometimes, reactions to drugs can look
• like signs of aging or of poor health. Drugs
• may interact with one another and cause
• problems.
• These could be slurred speech, increased
• confusion, lack of energy, tiredness, or
• increased risk of falling.
• Even when taking medications as direct-
•• ed, you may see side effects and conflicts.
Older bodies process drugs more slowly
than younger ones.
Mixing alcohol and medication is not a
good idea and it could be dangerous. Even
small amounts of alcohol may work with
drugs in a harmful way.
Seniors generally take more pills, and
may start drinking to cope with anxiety.
However, alcohol may worsen some health
conditions or interfere with prescription
drugs.
Older people are more sensitive to the
effects of alcohol because older bodies
process it more slowly.
'•' Even, if you've been a regular drinker in
• the pasts., you
may find your
reactions have
changed now.
Signs of alcohol
problems may
include increased
falls, slurred
speech, confu-
sion, poor nutri-
tion, difficulty
remembering, or
depression.
Some people
might see these
things as the
effects of aging
when they're
really signs of an
alcohol problem.
As we age, we
may experience
major life
changes. Alcohol
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File photo
Whitney-Ribey Funeral Home
A Family Owned Business Since 1975
1
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87 Goderich St. W., Seaforth 519-527-1390
Ross W. Ribey - Funeral Director
www.whitneyribeyfuneralhome.com.
Agent for: STRATFORD MEMORIALS LTD.
may seem like a way to help pass the time.
There are healthier alternatives. Think about new
hobbies, regular exercise or volunteer work.
Ask your health care provider about how your use of
alcohol may affect your prescriptions.
When you've been independent all your life, you may
find it hard to ask for help if you are finding life
changes difficult. However, help is available.
If you have concerns about alcohol or prescription
drugs, talk to Huron Addiction Services. Call us at the
Huron County Health Unit, 519-482-3416 or 1-877-837-
6143.
We have information, counseling and support for you
and your family. The service is free and confidential.
Seaforth Manor
Retirement Residence
100 James St. Seaforth
Mark Your Calendar!
FOOTCARE CLINIC
Tuesday, January 23r`'
DINER'S CLUB DINNER & DANCE
Tuesday, January 30`x,
5:00 p.m. 8.00 per person
Happy New Year front all the
Staff & Residents at Seaforth
Manor Retirement Home.
As space is limited, please
c111Tammy for reservations today
int the Retirement !Ionic - 527-0030 ext. 4