Written By Alan Good
Remember when…you could party late, drink hardy and go to work next day? Then things changed—slowly. You can’t seem to do those things. Or maybe you drank in moderation, but now someone starts to pour while asking, “say when?” and you have to think quick.
According to most studies on aging and alcohol, “Aging can lower the body’s tolerance for alcohol. Older adults generally experience the effects of alcohol more quickly than when they were younger. This puts older adults at higher risks for falls, car crashes, and other unintentional injuries that may result from drinking.”
Heavy drinking can make current health problems worse. Diabetes, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and, uh, oh yes! memory problems, can be caused by too much alcohol intake or made worse in those who already experience these symptoms.
Over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal remedies can be dangerous--even deadly—when mixed with alcohol. In older adults, especially, too much alcohol can lead to balance problems and falls, which can result in hip or arm fractures and injuries. There can be a decreased sense of thirst as we age, and alcohol can dehydrate us quickly.
It is recommended that older adults can choose not to drink or limit intakes to 2 drinks or less in a day for men and 1 drink or less in a day for women. On the other side, a 5-ounce glass of red wine is said to contain antioxidants which helps with cholesterol levels and protects blood cells. As in all things, moderation is key.
Things you can do to quit, or at least moderate your drinking, may include asking your doctor about advances in medication that might help you stick with alcohol abstinence longer or reduce cravings. Or you can talk to a trained counselor who knows about alcohol problems in older people.
There are support groups for older people with alcohol problems. Many people find group counseling sessions helpful. Also, consider websites or mobile applications that can help you track your alcohol intake and offer positive support as you make progress toward your goals.
Once you moderate your alcohol consumption, you will find you can get back to enjoying the things you used to do. You’ll have more energy, be sharper of mind and lessen the chances you will fall and hurt yourself. A side effect, relationships with friends and loved ones may improve.
