Alcohol and Aging: For More Information

Alcohol use is closely tied to both physical and mental health. For detailed information on alcohol and the impact it has on seniors’ health, as well as resources, research and ideas to help with issues, please read more on the sites below.

Alcohol and Aging: Know the Facts Summary
For news, policy development, research and events, see the Centre for Addictions Research of BC and the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse
Mental Health and Substance Use resources for BC seniors
Here to Help provides information for seniors, individuals and families about mental health and substance use issues, as well as tools and information in eleven different languages
Read about the evidence to support low-risk guidelines on Alcohol and Health in Canada (Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse, 2011)
For information on how alcohol affects older adults and tips for practitioners, see the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health – frequently asked questions about older adults and alcohol
Read the Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health (World Health Organization, 2011)

Last Updated: August 3, 2013

Important Phone Numbers

If you or someone you know needs help, call one of the numbers below:

9-1-1 if you are in an emergency.
8-1-1 for non-emergency information on how to access alternatives to toxic drug supply and substance use services
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) if you are considering suicide or are concerned about someone who may be.
310Mental Health Support at 310-6789 (no area code needed) for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health.
Kid’s Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 to speak to a professional counsellor, 24 hours a day.
Alcohol & Drug Information and Referral Service at 1-800-663-1441 (toll-free in B.C.) or 604-660-9382 (in the Lower Mainland) to find resources and support.

Find Mental Health and Substance Use Support

Are you looking for mental health and/or substance use support in British Columbia?

Visit Mental Health and Substance Use Supports in B.C., an online resource of over 6,000+ mental health and substance use services. Or, call 8-1-1 any time of the day or night for help navigating the mental health system. For the deaf and hard of hearing call 7-1-1 (TTY) or for VRS, visit Video Relay Services to sign up and give them the number 604-215-5101 to call us.

Featured Website

HeretoHelp provides information related to mental health and substance use. Their website includes a selection of personal stories, a library of self-help resources, and information about how to get help now.