Risky alcohol habits among older adults

The current study examined two types of drinking patterns. The first is risk consumption, which refers to regular alcohol use that may harm health. The second is intensive consumption, so-called “binge drinking,” where a person drinks a large amount of alcohol at one occasion.

– Risky alcohol consumption is common even among the very oldest, including those aged 80 and above. Including their experiences in research is important in itself,” says Wossenseged Birhane Jemberie, Current assistant professor at the Department of Social Work and CEDAR, Umeå University.

The study is based on data from nearly 12,000 individuals aged 65–90. The results show clear differences by region, gender, and age. For example, in Västerbotten, almost 40 percent of men aged 65–75 drank at risk levels. Among men aged 80–90, the share was about 20 percent. For women, the levels were generally lower.

Researchers also found that many older adults with cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks or high blood pressure, still consumed alcohol at high levels, despite general advice against drinking.

Different risk factors for men and women

The study showed that the risks associated with drinking varied between the sexes. Women with higher education or income were more likely to drink at risk levels. This also applied to those with depressive symptoms and those who had lost family members.

For men, higher BMI, fewer medications, and greater independence in daily life were more common among those who drank more.

We have found that older adults’ drinking patterns are linked to health, social life, and emotional well-being

One factor that reduced the risk of high consumption was active participation in religious or spiritual activities. This was true for both men and women.

– We have found that older adults’ drinking patterns are connected to health, social life, and emotional well-being. Understanding these reasons is crucial if we want to promote healthier aging, says Jemberie.

Jemberie emphasizes that alcohol consumption in old age must be understood in a broader perspective than just physical health.

– For some, alcohol represents autonomy; for others, it is a way to promote social connection and engagement. When we communicate risks, we must also understand the psychosocial reasons for drinking, he says.

He points out that loss of structure and routines after retirement can be an important cause of increased drinking. We often weigh the immediate rewards of drinking, such as relaxation and social bonding, against health risks that may seem distant.

Need for preventive measures

Researchers believe the results show a need for interventions that do not only focus on informing about health risks but also strengthen older people’s social and psychosocial well-being.

– I therefore believe that all preventive work and risk communication should be based on the factors older adults themselves see as important for their quality of life, says Jemberie.

The current study is a cross-sectional study. A cross-sectional study means researchers collect information at one point in time to get a snapshot of the situation. The study can show patterns and correlations but cannot determine cause and effect. The next step is to understand development over time.

– We need more studies and analyses to understand the mechanisms behind, so we can develop more precise preventive measures, says Jemberie.