Screening

The Independent reports today:
"Separate guidance on safe drinking levels for over-65s should be issued by the Government as current recommended limits are based on younger adults and are too high for the elderly, the Royal College of Psychiatrists said in a report."

The Health Consultant is content with the provision of information to aid people to make informed choice. NHS choices website also contains useful information. The report goes on:

"Recommendations include screening by GPs for substance misuse amongst the over-65s, as part of a routine health check and a public health campaign on alcohol and drug misuse targeted at older people."

If an individual would prefer not to be "screened" in such a way, when challenged regarding their lifestyle, there is often a detrimental effect upon the therapeutic relationship. The Health Consultant sees a role for somebody to help you manage relationships with your medical team to avoid such problems. As a client of the Health Consultant you would not be required to answer such direct questions.