2-4. False. Older people are less likely to talk directly about suicide. Verbal clues are more likely to be indirect; for example, "you won't have to worry about me much longer," "there's nothing to live for," or "my time has come" (Osgood, 1985; Schmall, Lawson, & Stiehl, 1990).

2-5. True. While people who are mildly depressed or dysphoric can take actions to reduce their depression, people who are severely depressed usually need help to recover. The low energy and helpless feelings of depression can keep a person from taking the initiative (Schmall, Lawson, & Stiehl, 1990).

2-6. True. About 70% of persons with severe depression respond to antidepressant medication. Medication is particularly effective when the depression is related to biologic factors (Blazer, 1990). However, older adults are more sensitive to the side effects of antidepressant medication (Salzman, 1984). Other forms of treatment such as cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and family therapy can also be effective in treating depression in later life (Zarit & Zarit, 1984). Often both medication and therapy are used.

2-7. False. Prescribed and over-the-counter medications can intensify the effects of alcohol leading to more rapid intoxication and intensifying the dangers associated with alcohol use (Willenbring & Spring, 1990). For example, when alcohol is taken with sedatives, tranquilizers, hypnotics, and pain relievers, there is a cumulative depressant effect on the central nervous system (Blazer, 1990).

2-8. True. The central nervous system is especially sensitive to the effects of alcohol. The effects are often subtle and are sometimes mistaken for senile dementia in an older person (Minnis 1990; Schmall, Gobeli, & Stiehl, 1989).

2-9. False. An alcohol problem is often a strong moral issue for older persons. Feelings of shame, guilt, and stigma are greater and more ingrained than in many younger adults. As a result, denial is often strongest with older persons and the amount of alcohol consumed is more likely to be under-reported (Blazer, 1990; Shipman, 1990).