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Alcohol abuse occurs among many people in our country, but different ages of people tend to handle the consumption of alcohol in a variety of ways. Often alcohol abuse is considered a college problem, but studies show that more and more older individuals are abusing alcohol on a regular basis. Government statistics have shown that 17 % of older adults are believed to misuse alcohol or prescription drugs, and that widowers over the age of 75 have the highest rate of alcoholism in the country. This problem is expected to get worse as baby boomers get older.
Reasons behind drinking in older adults
Old age can be a lonely time for many, and surviving the loss of a spouse or grown child may lead some to drink to forget their loneliness. Physical limitations and reduced mobility may lead to alcohol use to ease the feelings of isolation. A retired individual does not have the social support from their job anymore, which can lead to sadness and depression. Drinking to drown one’s sorrows or stress can turn into a dangerous cycle.
Risks of alcohol abuse in older adults
Older Americans that drink alcohol in excess are putting themselves at risk for disease and injury. Seniors are more sensitive to alcohol, because they reach higher blood alcohol levels faster than younger people. Their kidneys and liver do not remove the alcohol from the blood as quickly as they used to. Another problem is that senior citizens often take medication on a regular basis, which can interact negatively with alcohol that is consumed. Sometimes alcohol will decrease the effectiveness of a medication, and sometimes it will cause harmful side effects with a medication. With possible physical limitations occurring already, falls and accidents are also a risk for older adults that abuse alcohol.
Benefits to alcohol consumption in older adults
With that being said, there are benefits for many older individuals that consume moderate amounts (1-2 drinks a day) of alcohol. It is believed that alcohol in moderation can reduce heart disease and diabetes. Moderate use of wine (not beer) can also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. However, it is important to note that excessive alcohol can actually raise the risk of dementia. Women that drink with control can lesson the risk of osteoporosis. Finally, alcohol is sometimes credited for improving social interactions, nutrition, appetite, and quality of life. Sometimes the consumption of alcohol with friends actually raises the spirits of seniors, giving them a more positive attitude toward life.
The risk with stating these benefits, however, is that it may encourage people to drink. Even though alcohol is said to positively impact the health of many older adults, there is a fine line between the health benefits of alcohol and the dangers of alcohol. It is important to know the difference.
Sources
Brody, Jane Query for Aging Patients: How Much Do You Drink? December 15, 2008
