Where can I get help for my drinking problem if I have Alzheimer's disease?
A fellow caregiver asked...
Need help with azlheimers & drinking alcohol. What are the consequences of 3 or 4 glasses of wine with dinner?
Expert Answer
Jytte Lokvig, PhD, coaches families and professional caregivers and designs life-enrichment programs and activities for patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. Her workshops and seminars help caregivers and families create a healthy environment based on dignity and humor. She is the author of Alzheimer's A to Z: A Quick-Reference Guide.
Some substances are known to cause dementia, including alcohol (alcohol-related dementia.) On the other hand, a little wine can be a good thing. Red wine in particular is a good source of anti-oxidants. One glass with dinner is recommended for your health. However, 3 or 4 glasses is probably a bit too much, whether or not a person has Alzheimer's. If you're on medication, you'll want to avoid harmful interactions. If you want to get help to cut back, AA is probably still a good bet, even with your dementia.