Jul 21, 2026
If you are a senior or elderly person taking benzodiazepines
there are things you need to be aware and informed about. Not from
a place of fear but of safety. In this episode, a quick look
at how benzodiazepines can affect older adults and a few
resources.
One more thing. There is a high number of AI Slop videos on
this topic. Some of the presenters are not human. We have a new
generation of graduates of the I-fleece-em academy.
You can tell by how much fear they projects and the image of a
medical persona. The thumbnail is designed to hook you by engaging
in your curiosity or concern about a medication you take.
Please think before you click.
Resources Mentioned:
Over on the Canadian side of the fence, there is a brochure from Canadian Coalition
for Senior Mental Health. Simple, easy to read and packed with
solid accessible information. Such as if you are taking Benzos, you
should not be drinking alcohol.
There is a one-page handout that was created by Benzo.org.UK
for World Benzo Day called Problems and Pitfalls. It
explains some of the issues of seniors and elderly folk taking
benzodiazepine and some options.
The Mayo Clinic has a list of medications that can
cause some concerns in older adults.
The non-profit Benzo Info has a page on the medication called
Impact
on the Older Adult Population
University of Alabama at Birmingham has a report on More than
a million older Americans take benzodiazepines long-term. Here is
why doctors want them to stop,
and how a UAB psychiatrist approaches the conversation.
Emergency Resources
The Trevor Project: Provides crisis support specifically for LGBTQ+ youth through phone (1-866-488-7386), text (START to 678-678), and online chat. Available 24/7. They also provide peer support and community.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text
838255, or chat online. There are phone lines for those serving
overseas. Visit the website to find the current status of the
Veteran line and international calling options.
National Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for
free, confidential support 24/7. This service operates
independently of the 988 service. Users can use text, chat or
WhatsApp as a means of contact.
Disclaimer:
Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and
do not constitute endorsements.
Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with
questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health
disorder.
This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational
purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a
substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical
advice, diagnosis, or treatment.