A new year is on the horizon, and for many senior adults, celebrating New Year's Eve with family and friends is one of the highlights of the season. There's nothing better than toasting the New Year with some bubbly champagne, but some might have questions about just how much alcohol is safe to consume by seniors. Senior Helpers has guidance for seniors in and around the Kernersville, Greensboro, Reidsville, and Guilford County areas who wish to indulge in a few alcoholic drinks to celebrate the season but wish to do so safely.
Alcohol Use Can Remain Part of a Healthy Lifestyle
There's no reason to feel embarrassed about wanting to enjoy a drink or two during a New Year's Eve celebration. According to the National Council on Aging, alcohol use can remain a part of a healthy lifestyle as people age. In fact, enjoying a drink with friends or family may contribute to healthy aging by fostering social connections and a real sense of enjoyment. However, there are some people who should exercise caution when planning to drink, most notably, people who experience certain medical conditions.
Make Sure to Eat a Healthy Meal Before Drinking
It's always a good idea to ensure that you have eaten a healthy meal and had plenty of water before taking that first drink on New Year's Eve. A full stomach can keep senior adults from feeling dizzy or intoxicated, as well as alleviate any unpleasant effects that might occur after just one drink of alcohol.
Senior adults should also take care to stay within the recommended alcohol consumption limits. According to the CDC, adults of legal drinking age can choose not to drink, or drink in moderation by limiting intake to two drinks or less in a day for men or one drink or less in a day for women. These guidelines can serve as a baseline for senior adults who are planning to indulge in a drink or two on New Year's Eve.
Ask a Doctor Before Indulging in Alcohol
Ultimately, if a senior has never had alcohol before or if they are concerned about any side effects, they should consult with their doctor. Those taking any regular medication should also ask their doctor how alcohol will mix with the medication.
There are very real reasons for seniors to abstain from alcohol, and it is important to remember that no one should ever drink due to social pressure. When practiced responsibly and with moderation, drinking can be a fun, lighthearted social activity that can serve to connect seniors with their families and friends.
Senior Helpers Helps Senior Adults Foster Social Connections
Senior Helpers is the premier in-home caregiving service for senior adults in and around the Kernersville, Greensboro, Reidsville, and Guilford County areas. For questions about the personalized services that we offer, or if you are looking to set out on a rewarding new career as a caregiver for senior loved ones, contact Senior Helpers today!