Alcohol and the Elderly

When people retire, they have more time for social occasions, and hence more opportunities for drinking. Drinking at any age may lead to alcohol addiction. According to studies, alcohol may have greater health benefits for older men, as well as in reducing the risk of heart disease. However, too much alcohol may also lead to alcohol addiction. As a matter of fact, alcohol addiction has become an increasing concern among the elderly, who are susceptible to loneliness and depression, which are often grounds for drinking. One can easily develop alcohol tolerance if one drinks often enough.

According to studies, too much alcohol may have many adverse effects on health, especially in the elderly population:

(1) Too much alcohol stresses the liver, leading to the development of a fatty liver with mild symptoms of abnormalities. Having a fatty liver may be the first stage in the progression to cirrhosis, which is the final, as well as the incurable, stage of ALD (Alcoholic Liver Disease). ALD is fatal and affects the body’s metabolism, and thus creating many other health problems.

(2) Alcohol addiction may also lead to alcoholic hepatitis, another condition that can be mild but life threatening. One of the common symptoms is the development of jaundice, characterized by yellowish eyes and skin.

(3) Alcohol easily interacts with drugs and alters their effectiveness. This may cause potential problems to seniors who are taking many prescription drugs.

Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Free Program: Practical and empowering self-help guide to freedom from addiction! Alcoholism and drug addiction is not a disease but a choice!

Stephen Lau

Copyright© by Stephen Lau