Thanks for your post - you may want to read the drug information we have for Aricept:

Donepezil is used to treat mild to moderate confusion (dementia) related to Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to function. This medication is an enzyme blocker that works by restoring the balance of natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

Hope this helps.  sue

I'm answering as a non-medical person, but alcohol is rarely a good thing with any medication. You add the fact that the person has dementia, and it's likely even more negative. Aging bodies don't metabolize alcohol as well as younger bodies (in general). So for all purposes, it's probably negative.

A scientist would have to tell you the exact mechanism, so I'll leave that open.

A more pressing problem may be is this person dependent on alcohol? If so, does the doctor know that and did the diagnosing doctor know that? Alcoholism can cause dementia and be mistaken for other dementias. This is addressed in "The Alzheimer's Action Plan."

If this is what you are coping with, the doctor needs to know. It's difficult when the person with the problem is with you in front of the doctor, so you need to get "sneaky."

If the person just likes an occasional drink, then the doctor he or she sees should be able to answer you question, as everyone is different. But it's rarely "recommended."

Carol