Drinking too much alcohol or mixing medications can result in loss of balance and lack of judgment resulting in a fall. If you're mother is drinking too much she is much more likely to suffer a slip or fall and get hurt.

Many seniors begin drinking too much as a result of a disruption in their lifestyle such as retirement or coping with a death in the family. Isolation and loneliness can also lead to increased drinking. It is important that your mother is not using alcohol as an anesthetic to numb her feelings if she is struggling to cope with a difficult situation. If you think your mother is drinking too much it may benefit her to get a caregiver in the home so there is something there to help her during this difficult time.

There is also evidence that high alcohol intakes increase risk of osteoporosis. The Health Promotion Unit in Ireland recommends that women consume no more than 14 standard drinks per week, and men no more than 21 units. It is so important that your mother realises that over indulging will damage her health and that it is important to enjoy alcohol responsibly.

If you have any questions you would like answered please e-mail Noeleen Cronin on info@homeinstead.ie. Noleen is trained as a nurse and specialised in elder care before joining Home Instead Senior Care.

For further information on elder care issues and to keep up to date with Home Instead Senior Care news please click on the following link: http://www.homeinstead.ie/keep_in_touch.aspx.