Alcohol abuse-induced health and psychosocial losses among residents of social care institutions

Abstract

Introduction. Alcoholism is one of the most serious social issues of modern times. In Poland, the importance of problems resulting from alcohol abuse or misuse is significant, both in the context of health, economic and social consequences. Aim. The aim of the present study was to determine health and psychosocial losses of alcohol abuse among residents of social care institutions. Material and methods. A diagnostic survey was conducted using the authors questionnaire. The study was carried out among 30 residents of the nursing home in Kielce. The inclusion criterion was alcohol abuse. Results. In the study group, the largest group consisted of divorced residents - 66.67%. All of them admitted that alcohol abuse was the cause of divorce. Lack of contact with families was declared by 56.67% of respon- dents. None of the residents (100%) was visited by friends from outside the nursing home. Psychotic symptoms (hallucinations after alcohol) were found in 73.33% of residents. Somatic symptoms (headache, stomachache) and sleep disorders were confirmed by 90% of respondents. Attempts to cope with addiction were undertaken by 76.67% of residents; 73.33% declared their readiness to limit alcohol consumption. Conclusions. Adverse consequences of alcohol abuse involve somatic, family-related, social and emotional spheres. Respondents have large deficits in social relations due to long-term alcohol abuse and excessive preoccupation with alcohol. Alcohol in nursing homes fills the time, eliminates the feeling of loneliness, kills boredom and helps to forget about problems. Residents abusing alcohol on a daily basis feel alienated and have low self-esteem.