Further attention on older drinkers needed

New research published in the BMJ has drawn further attention to the issue of alcohol misuse amongst older adults. The study, which looked at drinking amongst a large primary care population, found 21.4% of over 65's drank above the weekly guidelines, especially 'young older’ male drinkers, those born outside the UK and those with higher socio-economic status.

The authors highlight the case for improving identification, treatment and support for older drinkers. Alcohol misuse of course increases the risk of falls as well as many other medical conditions, whilst factors associated with older age may trigger

drinking. However a lack of accessible services or a unwillingness to raise the issue with older drinkers have been identified as particular issues by previous research.

Whilst alcohol consumption amongst over 65's is generally lower than other age groups, older adult's drinking levels have not followed the falls in younger ages groups over recent years. Dr Tony Rao, lead author from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience at King’s College London said: “As the Baby Boomer generation become seniors, they represent an ever increasing population of older people drinking at levels that pose a risk to their health."

Dr Rao has championed the case for services to meet the needs of older drinkers for many years, recently producing a briefing which warned of a 150% rise in hospital admissions for over 60’s with alcohol related mental health problems. He has also set up a dedicated website on alcohol and older adults.

Dr Mark Ashworth, study author from the Division of Health and Social Care Research at King's College London said: "This research highlights that as GPs we need be more aware of the risk of older people, especially men, drinking excessively."

The research was covered by much of the media, whilst a recent Radio 4 broadcast 'Overage Drinkers' is still available to listen to.

Last year the Big Lottery Fund announced £25 million to support alcohol-related harm prevention and awareness programme for the over fifties, in partnership with Addaction. In 2012 a report from the Royal College of Psychiatrists advised over 65's should not drink more than 1.5 units of alcohol a day, and separate recommended guidelines should be considered. An Alcohol Concern Wales briefing paper is also available and see here for a RCP leaflet outlining the key alcohol issues and risks for older people.