Show Notes
Alcohol use in older adults is often described as a hidden issue not because it's uncommon, but because it is frequently overlooked, misunderstood, and under-responded to. In this episode, we explore a recurring theme emerging from safeguarding reviews: when alcohol-related harm presents in later life, it is often masked by other factors, misinterpreted, or not explored with sufficient curiosity.
This isn't simply about access to services. It's about how systems see (or fail to see) risk, need, and vulnerability in older adults. In this week's episode we discuss: Why alcohol use in older adults is often hidden in plain sight
The complex interplay between alcohol use, physical health, and social factors such as bereavement, isolation, and loss of identity
How service design can unintentionally exclude older adults (age thresholds, "one size fits all" approaches, cultural mismatch)
The role of unintentional ageism in shaping professional responses
Why recognition is one of the biggest challenges—and how symptoms are often misattributed to ageing, dementia, or frailty
Are you ready to find out more about independent review work? Whether you've been thinking about independent review work for a while or you're only just coming across it, why not join me for a free session that brings all of this together. The Independent Reviewer Immersion Workshop takes place online on 1st May at 1pm. In just one hour you'll walk away knowing exactly what independent review work involves, whether your skills are transferable, and what the journey from blue light professional to independent reviewer really looks like. No experience needed. No prior training required. Just bring your curiosity. Save your space here.
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About Donna:
Donna has 16 years public sector experience, including her last role as Head of Law for a leading metropolitan authority. Now a safeguarding adviser & trainer, Donna is involved in serious case reviews in both children's and adults' safeguarding, domestic homicide and is a SILP Reviewer and Mentor. Donna offers 'SILP School' her university accredited training course, Momentum her space for reviewers & a free online network for leaders in review practice.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-ohdedar-review-consulting-ltd/
Join my free Facebook group Blue Light Professionals here
Engagement + proportionality + strengths = SILP
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