[header] How to deal with elderly alcoholic parents as an adult [title] Avoid conversations while they're drinking. [step] If your parent picks up the phone and you can tell they've been drinking, say that you will call back or talk another time. Talking to someone who's been drinking can be difficult and cause you to become angry. 
It will also be difficult for your parent to absorb or respond appropriately to what you are trying to say to them if they are not sober and rational. Even if you're upset, avoid expressing that while your parent is under the influence.