As your senior loved one ages, drinking alcohol can become more of a problem, both medically and socially. Seniors must be especially mindful of the effects that drinking can have on their physical, mental, social, and medical issues to protect themselves. Explore guidelines for safely consuming alcohol in 2023 for seniors by considering a few factors:
Physical Considerations
Drinking alcohol can have a much more pronounced effect on seniors than on younger individuals. This is due in part to age-related changes in metabolism. As people enter their senior years, they may not be able to metabolize alcohol as quickly and efficiently as before.
Additionally, chronic dehydration is common among seniors which increases the risk of overconsumption and potentially dangerous side effects from drinking alcohol. Some medications that are commonly taken by your senior loved one can also interact dangerously with different forms of alcohol, such as wine or mixers like orange juice or tonic water. You need carefully read all labels on medications to look for side effects related to any alcohol consumption.
Mental Considerations
Along with physical considerations, mental health issues can also come into play when it comes to drinking alcohol. Seniors who suffer from dementia or other forms of cognitive decline may not be able to consider the effects of their alcohol consumption on the body and mind.
Your senior loved one may have a limited understanding of the risks associated with drinking and therefore make poor decisions related to their alcohol consumption, such as drinking more than is recommended.
Social Considerations
Your senior loved one may be at higher risk of social isolation and loneliness due to age and associated health issues, such as hearing problems or difficulty with mobility. Seniors who suffer from social isolation often turn to alcohol in order to cope with the negative emotions that accompany these issues.
Additionally, your senior loved one may lack the appropriate social support system of friends and family members which raises the risk of poor decision-making when it comes to drinking alcohol. A social support system is a key factor in providing safe limits on alcohol consumption levels for seniors.
Medical Considerations
Your senior loved one may have a variety of chronic health conditions which can increase the risk of dangerous side effects from drinking alcohol. These include issues such as high blood pressure or heart disease, or any other pre-existing medical condition.
There is an increased risk for alcohol-related illnesses like liver and stomach diseases among seniors who consume too much alcohol. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of falls for your senior loved one due to lack of coordination while also reducing reaction time if they do need to catch themselves quickly in order to avoid harm.
Partner With Senior Helpers Northwest Indiana to Provide Outstanding Care for Your Senior Loved One
There are myriad factors to consider when looking at guidelines for drinking alcohol in 2023 for seniors in Crown Point, Gary, Hammond, Lake County, and East Chicago. By keeping these factors in mind you can help ensure your senior loved one is able to safely consume alcohol if they do choose to do so. Senior Helpers Northwest Indiana offers help with day-to-day living for seniors. Find out more about our services today!