Rising life expectancies, reductions in disease, and the ability of the elderly to care for themselves and cope with life stresses all attest to the fact that Americans are learning how to maintain and improve their health. However, experts have noted that greater knowledge about the health problems of the elderly is needed. The elderly are prone to more frequent and serious accidental injuries in later life. Conditions which make the elderly more vulnerable include: (1) diseases, medications, alcohol, and preoccupation with problems, all of which may result in drowsiness; (2) depression; (3) poor eyesight and hearing; and (4) arthritis, neurological diseases, and impaired coordination, which may impair balance. Accidents can be prevented by maintaining mental and physical health and conditioning and by using good safety habits. Elderly people may be particularly susceptible to alcoholism, even though until recently elderly problem drinkers have tended to be ignored. Alcohol and drugs may mix unfavorably, exaggerating or altering the response to these drugs, or intensifying the reaction to the alcohol. Older alcohol abusers have a particularly good chance of recovery because of their adherence to program requirements. Alcohol abusers can find assistance through a family doctor, clergyman, local health department or social service agency, or organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Older alcoholics need arrangements for a recovery plan made for them as soon as the problem is recognized. (ABL)