Follow
Share

My 80 y/old mother has not been sleeping and drinking to fall asleep. She has once had 5 drinks & fell (bruised forehead & black eye). Dr. Told her not to drink. Told her I did not want to be responsible if she falls. Any suggestions?

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
When I was young I believed old people had a special medicine in their cupboard. It was spelled G-I-N and although it looked like water, it smelled awful and tasted worse. Granma seemed to like it, though.
Helpful Answer (3)
Report

Is the not being able to get to sleep bit of this new? Has your mother always had trouble nodding off?

Five drinks and I'd fall over, to be honest: moderation in all things, surely. I don't see any reason why your mother shouldn't enjoy alcohol in sensible amounts, at sensible times. But drinking in order to get to sleep is a) suggestive that something else is wrong and b) doesn't work. You fall asleep in your armchair with your mouth hanging open then wake up two hours later with unattractive drool drying on your chin and a thumping headache.

Seriously, alcohol is notoriously lousy for good quality sleep and good sleep patterns. Separate the issues for her.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

My grandma used to have a small glass of Manishevitz sweet wine in the evening to fall asleep. If your elder needs anything more than that, call the doc and talk to him/her about sleep or anti anxiety meds.
Helpful Answer (2)
Report

Yes, say here is ONE that is all you get. Then lock it up.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Not clear why you would even ask this question. Sounds like a no-brained to me.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

I have trouble falling asleep and I know alcohol isn't the answer. I take a small antihistamine. Talk to the doctor about getting her something to help her sleep. Benadryl, perhaps. I use a generic that is very cheap.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

No, please do not enable. I have been an enabler all my life, and it is an awful way to feel.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

While it may seem like a no brainer, my mother has so many health issues and can't sleep. If she feels it helps her, who am to judge. I can give her one and that's the limit. I need to get sleep too ;)
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

Well there aren't too many (if any) medical conditions that are helped by alcohol. If she's on any kind of meds, I would bet that alcohol is not a good mix. I'd try to find something else that can help her sleep. Melatonin or a warm bath or music or meditation...a heating pad that shuts off...anything but booze. Or one and done. Good luck, I'm sure it's not easy if she wants it.
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

blannie, thanks for the suggestions. I did go out today & buy some melatonin. I also bought some serenity cd's!
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

See All Answers
This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter