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We Did It—So Can You!

Photo of an older man playing chess with a childYou can make changes in your drinking habits even if you are an older adult. Here are some stories about people who are like you. Each one has made changes in his or her drinking.

No drinking with medicines.

“My doctor said now that I’m taking all these medicines, I shouldn’t drink at all. Having a few beers each night could cause even bigger health problems. I decided that the drinking wasn’t worth it.”

Sober for 4 years and going strong.

“I drank heavily from the time I was 22 until I was 69. I never thought I would be able to quit. But I did. It wasn’t easy. I had a lot of help. I still take it a day at a time. It’s been 4 years and so far, so good.”

Found activities I enjoy.

“After I retired, I was bored. I suppose I drank to pass the time. My wife urged me to join her at the senior center. A group of us play cards a few times a week. Having fun replaced drinking, and I don’t even miss it.”


Cutting back or quitting can be hard. But, you have probably done other hard things in your life. You can do this, too.


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Page last updated Jan 27, 2009