Senior Guidelines for Drinking and Alcohol Recommendations for New Year's Eve
Drinking alcohol is part of a healthy lifestyle if taken in moderate quantities. For instance, moderate drinking for seniors considered safe is no more than 1.5 ounces of spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer. Consumption of alcohol in moderate amounts stimulates appetite and is a good mood booster. Nevertheless, a large intake of alcohol could exacerbate cognitive impairment and dementia.
A Seniors' Guide to Safe Alcohol Drinking for New Year's Eve: Recommendations and Practices
During New Year's Eve, many people, especially seniors, drink more alcohol than average as a way to celebrate the past year and usher in a new one. This guide highlights safe drinking practices and recommendations for seniors.
Check with a Doctor
Some medications may be fatal if mixed with alcohol. Ask a healthcare provider if prescribed medications will have interactions with certain drinks. Seniors react differently to alcohol as the body's absorption of alcohol is lowered with age. Advanced age is shown to slow the body's ability to break down alcohol, meaning it remains much longer in the body. This puts seniors at higher risk of accidents like falls and trips.
Eat Well and Hydrate
Drinking while the stomach is empty will result in faster absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream. Before drinking alcohol, seniors should ensure that they have a solid base of food in their stomachs. Eating helps with cognitive abilities when intoxicated, thus reducing the effect of alcohol on the body.
Hydration is also central to a senior's health and well-being. Remember, seniors, drinking alcohol is dehydrating. Seniors are advised to alternate between a glass of water and alcohol to remain hydrated.
Set a Drinking Limit
It is common to drink more than needed. Before drinking, a senior needs to set a limit on the amount of alcohol they are going to drink. How much alcohol a senior can handle depends on their age, weight, health, and how they feel at the time. Seniors should check with their doctors about their safe drinking limits. They should not be afraid to speak up and prioritize their health.
Make a Plan
Even when heading out to drink with friends during New Year's Eve, seniors should have a backup plan on how they will get home safely. They should not drink and drive. Instead, seniors should opt for public transport.
Safe Drinking Practices for Seniors During and After New Year's Eve
• Sip rather than gulp your drink.
• Avoid drinking games as they can intoxicate the body faster.
• Take light beers with less alcohol content and calories.
• Know what you are drinking; if unsure of an ingredient, look it up on your phone.
• Do not leave a drink unattended.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers.
• Watch out for sudden changes in the way the body feels.
• Trust what the gut is saying.
Let Senior Helpers Northern Mississippi Help
Families living far from their senior loved ones may want to consider hiring a caregiver to help them. Senior Helpers Northern Mississippi offers caregiver services in Byhalia, Coldwater, Hernando, Holly Springs, Horn Lake, Olive Branch, Southaven, and Oxford. Our professional caregiver services provide companionship, which reduces the symptoms of depression and loneliness. For more information, contact us.