I am old. I have lived nearly all my life; and, outlived all my loved ones. Including the one most of all. So, my comments relative to AA should be viewed in that context.
I quit drinking because I decided to quit; just as I decided to start getting habitually drunk. Both were decisions taken by intent. My intent.
AA cannot; will not, say or do anything which will cause anyone to put an eand to abuse. AA, nor any other external force, will cause abstinence.
Putting an end to habitual drunkeness is, first and foremost, an act of will. That comes first.
A support group may provide: emotional support, good tools, good advice. All may be very helpful and useful; even, necessary.
A support group is useful for a time. But, it has a sell by date.
There comes a time when one draws a line under it. I did that; I abused substances for a time. But, I am a different person now.
That applies to AA; and, any other support group.