Senior Guidelines for Drinking and Alcohol Recommendations for New Year's Eve

People all over America and the world will join together to celebrate the start of 2023 on New Year's Eve. As many seniors know, New Year's Eve involves traditions where people let go of their worries for the evening, approach the next year with optimism, make resolutions, and — yes — often observe the holiday with some alcohol consumption.

As seniors know, the holiday spirit never changes, but alcohol can impact people differently. It's important to think about some drinking recommendations based on the opinions of medical experts who take into consideration particular health concerns facing seniors. Alcohol can influence people differently based on environmental factors, physical and mental health, and various other factors.

Here is some information about alcohol consumption to make the best health choice and have a safe holiday evening.

Can Seniors Drink Alcohol?

Many people have questions about how to handle situations that used to seem commonplace, but now seem potentially riskier and want to know what's the safest way to celebrate. According to The National Council on Aging's new research on seniors and drinking, "nearly half of older adults aged 65 and older report having consumed alcohol in the past year."

This shows that many seniors continue drinking throughout their lives. The studies suggest that this is fine, as long as seniors keep limits in mind. Since New Year's Eve is a holiday where many drink, the key is to help everyone follow appropriate boundaries. Seniors might need to follow certain medical advice or avoid alcohol, especially if it interacts with their current medication.

Who Should Limit Their Alcohol Consumption?

The National Council on Aging suggests that senior citizens don't consume more than three alcoholic drinks each day. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism released new data that seniors may "generally experience the effects of alcohol more quickly than when they were younger."

In other words, the onset of intoxication might happen more immediately and take seniors by surprise. Due to this, seniors are at-risk for falls when the lack of coordination from alcohol kicks in. It is important to exercise extra caution while drinking to avoid slips and falls. Depending on the weather in the area, look out for ice and snow if drinking and walking around outside. Always be cognizant that the alcohol might take effect immediately or more strongly than in the past.

What Should Seniors Who Drink Know?

To have a safe holiday, always consider the same types of precautions as in the past. There are risks that alcohol can be habit-forming, interact with medication, and seniors may regret the effects of drinking. On New Year's Eve, use particular caution on the roads. Seniors can consider calling for a ride if attending more than one event. Practice healthy drinking limits to have fun while staying safe this holiday season.

How Senior Helpers of Denver South Can Help

Senior Helpers enjoys helping seniors make lifestyle choices in Denver and the surrounding suburbs like Arvada, Aurora, Broomfield, Commerce City, Lafayette, Northglenn, Thornton, Westminster, and Wheat Ridge. Contact us for more information and guidance for senior citizens. You can also learn more about our in-home care services for seniors such as companionship and transitional care.