Alcohol and Seniors: A Delicate Balance

Senior Health and Wellbeing  |  June 12, 2020

What Every Senior in Victoria, BC Needs to Know About Responsible Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol and Seniors | It’s no secret that many of us can certainly enjoy having a cocktail with our friends, or a regular glass of wine with dinner. And for those seniors with the proper doctor’s approval, this certainly need not change. However, it’s very important to look at the ways that alcohol can impact the health of older adults, both physically and mentally, and how the resulting alcohol abuse can look different in elderly adults who are suffering negative consequences.

How Age Changes the Relationship between Alcohol and Seniors: 

#1. The way we process alcohol changes:

As we age, our metabolism slows down, meaning that alcohol remains in our bodies for a longer duration of time. Also, having less muscle mass means the same thing, and can prolong the effects of alcohol.

#2. Intoxication feels different:

It’s no surprise that seniors have a lower tolerance for alcohol, and this means that intoxication can come on a lot quicker than someone younger.

#3. Elderly adults more often have conditions that are made worse by alcohol:

Senior adults will more often than not have conditions that are amplified by alcohol use. And the medications they are prescribed often cannot be consumed with alcohol.

While some seniors, after consulting with their doctor, may find that they can safely consume alcohol without jeopardizing their health, others may find alcohol to cause them the following signs and symptoms.

Concerning Symptoms in Seniors to Be Aware of:

• Feelings of agitation when not drinking
• Difficulties sleeping
• Fighting depression or anxiety with drinking
• Injuries as a result of intoxication
• Social or financial difficulties arising from alcohol abuse
• Drinking against the advice given by their doctor

There are many programs out there that are specifically targeted for senior adults abusing alcohol, and studies have shown that these programs are more effective when designed for specific age groups. If you believe that someone you know may have a drinking issue, you should encourage them to seek out help.

At Comfort Keepers® Victoria we feel that home is the best place to be.

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care, overnight care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, senior living transition services, and much more! 

Comfort Keepers® Victoria provides in-home elderly care services

Comfort Keepers® trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. Our Interactive Caregiving™ system provides care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Comfort Keepers® Victoria in-home caregivers can help with Interactive Caregiving™

Our philosophy is to elevate the human spirit and our caregivers will be there every step of the way to ensure your loved one has a better quality of life. Personal and empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Learn more about our unique service which offers respite care, overnight care, personal care, companionship care, palliative care, and end-of-life care by contacting the Comfort Keepers Victoria office.

Comfort Keepers® Victoria is proud to provide senior care and home care services to keep seniors safe in their homes.

If you are searching for home care near me, Comfort Keepers® Victoria can provide home care for the seniors of Victoria and the surrounding areas of Colwood, Saanich, Sidney, James Bay, and Oak Bay. Please call (778) 265-5999 and learn how your loved ones can receive compassionate, professional in-home care.

Quality and Accredited Respite Care for British Columbia Families

Comfort Keepers® Victoria has been accredited with Exemplary Standing with Accreditation Canada. Accreditation is an intensive process in which industry experts examine an organization’s processes, policies, and procedures against quality standards. To achieve accredited status, Comfort Keepers offices met or exceeded the rigorous standards for Home Care companies, as defined by Accreditation Canada. 

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