When Alcohol and Ageing Collide

As New Zealand’s population ages, aged residential care facilities are facing an urgent challenge: managing the complex impacts of alcohol and substance use among older adults. With up to 40% of people over 50 classified as hazardous drinkers, the risks in care settings are substantial. Alcohol use contributes to falls, cognitive decline, medication interactions, and behavioural changes such as aggression, disinhibition, and emotional distress. Critically, up to 65% of fatal falls in aged care involve alcohol, making it a leading factor in resident injuries and facility risk.

These issues not only compromise resident safety and wellbeing—they also place immense pressure on staff, who must respond to intoxication, verbal and physical assaults, and unpredictable behaviours, often without adequate training or clinical support. The result is increased burnout, ethical dilemmas, and emotional fatigue, while facilities face legal liability and reputational damage if clear alcohol and drug policies are not in place. Proactive, evidence-based training and support are essential to protect both residents and staff.

Tailored Clinical Support for Aged Care Facilities

Toolkit is commitment to personalised support. Staff learn how to identify and respond to hazardous substance use, manage intoxication and aggression, and strengthen clinical documentation and care planning. Residents are supported to reflect on their alcohol use, understand how ageing affects the body’s response to substances, and explore safer coping strategies. Our training is designed to reduce harm, improve safety, and promote dignity and informed choice in aged care settings.

Whether you're looking to upskill your team, protect your residents, or strengthen your internal policies and processes, Toolkit’s aged care workshops are a vital resource.

👉 Learn more and book your training today https://www.toolkit.org.nz/what-we-offer/aged-care-workshops