Know the facts on alcohol and aging

[admin]

April 20, 2012

Ministry of Health

VICTORIA - Did you know that as we age we become more sensitive to the effects of
alcohol? The amount of alcohol we were once able to consume safely decreases, and
drinking can have additional and serious consequences.

The Province has released a brochure and web-based information to provide guidance
on low risk drinking for seniors. These are available at:
www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alcohol

Brochures may be ordered by calling the Health and Seniors Information Line toll-
free at 1 800 465-4911.

Alcohol can cause a number of health problems. Too much alcohol can contribute to
chronic diseases, including cancer and some heart conditions. Almost half of all
prescription drugs taken by older people can interact with alcohol. Even the
smallest amount of alcohol could negatively impact the effectiveness of
medications.

Alcohol-related problems in older adults can be mistaken for physical, social or
emotional conditions associated with aging. Problem drinking can place a major
burden on families and the health-care system. While there are supports for older
adults, it is always a good idea for family and friends to watch for signs that
drinking could be a problem.

Providing information and tools for advance care planning is one of the priority
actions in the Seniors Action Plan. Through 'Improving Care for B.C. Seniors: An
Action Plan', the Province is building a more-accessible, transparent and
accountable approach to seniors' care. The plan contains specific deliverables to
help seniors and their families navigate the health system, easily access
information about care options and have a clear and simple way to register
complaints and have their concerns addressed.

You can review the action plan online at: www.SeniorsBC.ca
Help shape the implementation by sending ideas to: SeniorsActionPlan@gov.bc.ca

Quote:

Ron Cantelon, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health - "We
are hoping British Columbians realize that as they age, their bodies treat alcohol
differently and this can have a greater effect on their lives. This new brochure
acts as a guide by highlighting some of the adjustments we need to be aware of as
we age in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle."

Quick Facts:

* In British Columbia, per capita alcohol consumption has increased by eight per
cent since 2002 and corresponding health harms have also increased.
* Problem drinking often goes unnoticed because many older adults prefer to drink
alone in the privacy of their homes.
* Most B.C. seniors drink moderately, but an estimated nine per cent regularly
consume alcohol at levels that put them at increased risk for injuries, cognitive
impairment and mental-health disorders.
* Falls are the most common cause of injury among British Columbia seniors. Adding
alcohol to the mix increases the risk of injury by falling and can lead older
adults to lose their independence.
* Cutting back on alcohol, even by a little, can reduce the risk of many illnesses
and health effects.

Learn More:

* For more information on alcohol and aging, visit:
www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alcohol
* To receive brochures on alcohol and aging, as well as additional support, call
the Health and Seniors Information Line at 1 800 465-4911 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. Monday-Friday (excluding holidays).
* For alcohol and drug information, referral services and counselling, call the
Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service 24/7 at 1 800 663-1441.
* To speak to a registered nurse about any of your health concerns, call
HealthLinkBC 24/7 at 8-1-1, or 7-1-1 for the hearing impaired.
* For tips on how to be healthy at any age, visit: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca