Alcohol Abuse Among Older Adults

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends no more than 1 drink per day.  In the United States, 12%-15% of seniors drink more than the limit recommended by the Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines.

As people age, their bodies respond differently to alcohol.  An older person, 65 or older, who drinks the same amount of alcohol as a younger person will have a higher blood-alcohol level.  As a person ages, alcohol is eliminated less efficiently by the body due to changes in kidneys, liver, cardiovascular system and the brain.  This can result in an increased sensitivity to alcohol, thus the effects of drinking become more pronounced and last longer. 

Varying factors are associated with alcohol use and abuse among older adults.  They sometimes begin to drink or drink more because of a dramatic change in their lives, such as children leaving home, limited mobility, chronic pain or boredom with retirement.  Some may use alcohol to dull the pain or discomfort associated with their physical capacity.  After many years of employment, they may lose a sense of identity because their role in society has drastically changed.

Some turn to alcohol to help cope with the stress of living on a fixed income, loss of a spouse, family member or friend.  Unlike younger people, who drink because they are among friends, older people tend to drink from a sense of being alone and isolated.

Medication is used by 90% of older adults, and many prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal remedies- interact adversely with alcohol.  Medicine and alcohol misuse can happen unintentionally and leave adverse effects.  Alcohol can heighten the sedative effect of medications and increase the risk of falls, cause drowsiness and confusion or trigger or worsen chronic medical conditions.

Support of family members and friends is important.  A medical provider can give advice about issues concerning health, drinking and treatment options.