The older adult and alcohol: Breakthrough Spring 2004

At the Centre

While older adults generally drink less alcohol than younger adults, they are more sensitive to its affects. A small amount of alcohol may not harm a healthy adult, but if you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease or stomach problems, alcohol can make these conditions worse.

Also, if you are taking medication, either prescribed by your doctor or over-the-counter (such as painkillers), there is a possibility that your medications will not work effectively if you are using even small amounts of alcohol. Interactions between alcohol and medications can be very serious, so take the time to ask your doctor or your pharmacist to help you understand what you can do to minimize the risks.

There are many reasons people use alcohol; to help them sleep, to cope with physical pain, or emotional loss, grief, loneliness or depression. There is a long list of reasons why people have alcohol in their lives. What role does it play in your life? Can you look at the underlying problem, and try to get help with that? Perhaps there isn't a problem and you drink because you enjoy the taste, or it is a habit, part of your routine. What we suggest is, as part of your healthy lifestyle, you become aware of changes in your life, your health, and optimize your independence by limiting your drinking. To learn more about low risk drinking guidelines, visit <www.lrdg.net>.

• Print Bookmark