Is consuming alcohol good or bad for seniors? This is a question many older adults are asking today that has no one simple answer.Medical and academic studies on the impact of alcohol consumption on the body vary greatly in their conclusions.Some researchers believe moderate drinking can have certain health benefits while others report that the dangers of alcohol consumption far outweigh any potential benefits.The effects of alcohol on the body are determined by numerous factors, including but not limited to gender, body size, age, overall health condition, genetics, food intake, medications, and the amount and speed of alcohol consumption.
Identifying the risks and benefits of alcohol as well as answering the question how much is too much? depends on how your body metabolizes alcohol.Alcohol Tolerance Changes With AgingIf you are of senior age, you are more likely than not to have heard yourself or someone else say I cant drink like I used to.This is not just a comment said in jest.It is a medical fact because intolerance to alcohol increases as you age.
Once you reach your senior years, your body produces less enzymes that facilitate the breakdown of toxins in alcohol.Alcohol also tends to stay in your system longer as you get older, leading to more extended periods of nausea, digestive issues, and other like feelings typically associated with a hangover.This increased sensitivity to alcohol as you age can be especially dangerous when combined with worsening vision, balance issues, and the amount and types of medications taken.Alcohol misuse is a serious health problem in the senior population, trending upwards in recent years and particularly among women.
Since 2001, alcohol disorders among people fifty-five and older increased by over 107%.Seniors who exceeded recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption also had higher incidences of negative physical and mental health issues.So how much alcohol is safe for seniors to consume? The National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism advises that anyone sixty-five and older and not taking medications should have no more than 7 drinks a week.A drink is defined as follows:12 ounces of beer, ale, or wine cooler8 ounces of malt liquor5 ounces of wineOr 1.5 ounces of distilled liquorWeigh the Risks and BenefitsResearchers have identified occasional or moderate alcohol consumption to have certain health benefits in segments of the elderly population.
Moderate alcohol use may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke because it can increase production of good cholesterol (HCL) and decrease blood clots.Sharing drinks with friends or family members may have psychological benefits because it can promote social engagement, improve moods, and help seniors avoid feelings of isolation because they feel more connected to other people in their lives.Other research studies report that moderate alcohol use by older adults is linked to improved cognitive health, a stimulated appetite, and better bowel functions.
Other academic and medical researchers believe there is no safe amount of alcohol for seniors because it is a toxic psychoactive substance that can lead to dependence.They point out that alcohol is a Group 1 carcinogen, which is the highest risk group.Alcohol abuse among seniors has also been linked to some kinds of cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, and brain damage.
It can also worsen existing health condition such osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, ulcers and other chronic disorders.Excessive alcohol among seniors can cause them to be forgetful and confused, symptoms that might be mistaken for signs of Alzheimers Disease or related dementias.Many medications that seniors take prescription, over the counter, or herbal remedies can react with alcohol in ways that can compromise their health and even endanger their lives.
If you are a senior taking medications prescribed or otherwise, always consult with your physician or pharmacist about how much if any alcohol is safe for you to consume.If you are talking sleeping pills, pain medications or anxiety/anti-depression medicines, know that combining them with alcohol can have lethal consequences.If you are experiencing balance issues, any amount of alcohol can increase the likelihood of having a serious slip and fall injury.
Be Safe, Not SorryYour body changes as it ages.Be alert to how alcohol consumption interacts with these changes that you experience.You may still be able to enjoy an occasional beer, mixed drink, or glass of wine, but always do so in moderation.If your drinking habits are causing problems in your life, seek professional help before they become more serious.
There are many organizations in your local community that provide you with the advice and support you need to help you live a longer, happier, and healthier life.
Publisher: Senior Caregivers ( Read More )
