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Abstract: 

Editor Joanne Otto notes that: One thing that is common to most elderly is their need to take medication. There are few people in their later years who are free from any kind of prescription, and nearly every type of drug that is helpful to elderly patients has some risks when combined with alcohol. The following three reports offer a quick glimpse into new research on these issues. The first questions the wisdom of offering quick pharmaceutical solutions for depression without examining the patient’s life circumstances. The second introduces a new method of measuring the level of consciousness of drug or alcohol impaired individuals. The third suggests that would-be drivers who have imbibed often believe they are safe to drive or undertake other activities requiring motor skills and balance, because they do not yet fee their impairment. Boxed is an altered Mental Status Scale.

Keywords: medication and alcohol; measuring the level of consciousness of drug or alcohol impaired individuals

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