As we get older, our bodies can’t process alcohol the same as before. Older adults can be more susceptible to alcohol’s effects, experiencing immediate health risks, worsened health conditions and reactions to medication. Living an alcohol-free lifestyle can have numerous health benefits, including lowering your blood pressure, helping you maintain a healthy weight and improving your mood.
Let’s examine the effects of alcohol on older adults and ways to promote healthier aging.
How Aging Impacts Alcohol Tolerance
Alcohol tolerance diminishes as you age, leaving the brain and the body more susceptible to the effects of alcohol. One of the biggest reasons for these effects is changes in the liver. As you get older, your body has a harder time metabolizing alcohol as it did before and can’t produce as many liver enzymes or produce them as efficiently, making you more sensitive to alcohol.
The total amount of water in the body also decreases with age. When you drink, more alcohol ends up in the bloodstream — intensifying its physical effects. For these reasons, doctors recommend that most people should stop drinking alcohol after 60.
Health Risks of Drinking for Older Adults
The effects of drinking alcohol on older adults can be significant. It can lead to unwanted side effects and cognitive issues, increasing the risks of falls and injuries. Drinking can also lead to long-term health issues and a cycle of misuse, which is common among older adults. Knowing these risks can help you make healthy, safe choices to age comfortably:
1. Alcohol and Medication Interactions
Older adults often take multiple medications, and combining them with alcohol can lead to harmful interactions. Medicines that interact with alcohol can include antidepressants, blood thinners, pain relievers like acetaminophen and antianxiety medications like benzodiazepines. Side effects from combining alcohol with drugs can consist of:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Fainting
- Loss of coordination
- Increased risk for internal bleeding, heart problems or trouble breathing
2. Impact on Chronic Illnesses
Drinking alcohol can also worsen existing health conditions older adults might be facing. For example, drinking alcohol can cause or exacerbate health conditions like diabetes, liver damage and high blood pressure. Ultimately, alcohol can accelerate the progression of chronic diseases, leading to a decline in overall health.
3. Increase in Fall Risks
Falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 years and older, and alcohol use can increase this risk. Drinking impairs your balance and coordination, leading to stumbles and accidents. Alcohol can also affect judgment, causing risky behaviors that could lead to a fall. That’s why it’s important to drink in moderation or set limits on alcohol use. This can help you reduce fall risks. Creating a safe home can also help, such as removing tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter around the house.
4. Effects on Cognitive and Mental Health
Alcohol has significant effects on the aging brain. Long-term alcohol use can lead to cognitive decline and mental health conditions. Research has shown that it can diminish white matter in the brain, part of the network of nerve fibers that transmit information. Alcohol can also reduce brain volume overall.
With these brain changes from heavy drinking also comes an increased risk of dementia and worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety. If you’re concerned that drinking might be affecting your well-being, you may want to speak with your doctor. Signs can include changes in mood, behavior and overall mental health stability. These struggles may cause older adults to increase their drinking for relief, creating an unhealthy cycle.
5. Risks of Alcohol Misuse by Older Adults
Alcohol misuse has increased in older adults in the past few decades and is now the most commonly misused substance among this age group. This could be for several reasons, including major life changes like the death of a loved one, moving to a new home or deteriorating health. These changes can lead to loneliness, boredom or depression, a condition in older adults that often aligns with drinking too much.
It’s essential to know the signs of alcohol use disorder (AUD) among older adults:
- Changes in behavior
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Neglecting day-to-day responsibilities
- Increased tolerance
Alcohol misuse can look different for everyone. Someone with alcohol use disorder might not drink every day. Regardless, heavy drinking is always harmful, even if it’s not frequent.
Strategies for Safe Alcohol Use
Older adults, their loved ones and family caregivers can mitigate the risks of alcohol use in several ways:
Follow Safe Drinking Guidelines for Older Adults
If you decide to drink, professionals recommend that adults over 65 drink no more than one standard drink per day and no more than seven per week. However, the amount can vary depending on your health and body type, so it’s essential to consult with your doctor before you drink. It’s a good idea to regularly assess your drinking habits and stop drinking if you notice a change in your health.
Try Alcohol-Free Alternatives
When you’re ready to cut down on your alcohol intake, there are plenty of delicious alternatives you can enjoy without feeling like you’re missing out, such as:
- Nonalcoholic beers and spirits
- Sparkling water
- Herbal teas
- Kombucha
You can even make mocktails with some of these bases, including coconut water, sparkling water or herbal teas. While alcohol is a diuretic, a tasty mocktail can help you stay hydrated and healthy.
Learn How to Identify Alcohol Misuse
If you’re concerned that you or someone you know may be struggling with alcohol misuse, there are a few things you can do. It’s important to learn the signs and impact on health. An open discussion about drinking can lead to healthy changes.
You might also take on healthier activities that don’t revolve around drinking, such as exercise, keeping up with hobbies, trying out a cooking class or hanging out at social gatherings that involve alcohol-free beverages. Soon, you’ll find you no longer rely on alcohol and can enjoy all the mental and physical benefits of a healthier lifestyle.
Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle With Support From Village Caregiving
Older adults can enjoy healthier, more fulfilling lives by addressing these health risks and adopting safer drinking practices. If you or a loved one is concerned about alcohol and its effects, it’s important to seek professional guidance. Your doctor can provide personalized advice on safe drinking practices and help you identify any signs of alcohol misuse.
At Village Caregiving, we are dedicated to supporting older adults in leading healthy, meaningful lives. Our compassionate family caregivers are here to help you find the right resources and create a personalized home care plan that prioritizes your well-being. Together, we can gracefully navigate the aging process, embracing a lifestyle that’s good for your physical and mental health.
Take the first step toward a healthier future today — contact us today to learn about our home care services and explore the possibilities of an alcohol-free life.
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