The study was part of a larger research project funded by the National Institute on Aging that examined family violence between generations. Samples of elder abuse perpetrators and nonabusing elder caregivers were identified by and received social services from agencies or hospitals in northern Ohio. Both groups were predominantly white and tended to have annual household incomes of less than $20,000. Interview data revealed that abusers were more likely than nonabusers to drink, to become intoxicated, and to be identified as having a drinking problem. Beer tended to be the beverage of choice among most respondents. When respondents identified a specific situation associated with alcohol use, it often involved interaction with the elder parent. Few individuals sought any form of treatment. Limitations and implications of the study for policy and practice are discussed. 32 references, 1 table, and 1 figure