Even Light Drinking Is Unsafe for Elderly Persons, Study Reveals

By Adebowale Bello. B.Tech Microbiology. Freelance Health Writer.

An elderly African man with white beard, skull cap and wearing glasses.

Some studies have suggested that a glass of wine may be good for your heart, while others warn of the dangers of excessive drinking. This highlights the differing opinions regarding alcohol consumption.

In many African cultures, it's common for elderly men and some women too aged 60+ to enjoy a casual alcoholic drink (especially beer) during leisure time. However, a new study reveals that even light drinking may pose significant health risks especially for elderly people with chronic health issues and those with low income. .

About The Study

This comprehensive 12-year study used data from 135,000 adults aged 60 and above from the UK Biobank, sheds new light on the hidden dangers of alcohol consumption for elderly persons. This challenges long-held beliefs about moderate drinking and here are some conclusions from the study;

1. There is no safe drinking level for elderly people. Even those who consume alcohol moderately face a heightened risk of cancer and premature death.

2. Elderly persons living with existing health problems or from disadvantaged backgrounds faced an even greater risk of cancer and were more likely to die quicker.

3. Even though it may just be a sip, assumed to be “good for the body”, drinking moderately does not offer any protective effects. 

4. When compared to persons who drank occasionally, moderate drinkers were at a higher risk of death and cancer.

5. Elderly persons who drank heavily were associated with the highest mortality rates from all causes, cancer and heart disease.

The long-standing belief that a “sip” of alcohol could be beneficial is not entirely true for older adults and it exposes them to higher risks of cancer and eventual death.

Even though previous studies have claimed that moderate drinking is beneficial, this new research has linked that belief to the "healthy drinker bias." This bias suggests that those who are healthy may be more inclined to drink moderately, leading to the mistaken belief that alcohol itself is beneficial.

What Does This Mean For You?

Whether you're elderly now or have aged loved ones who enjoy a casual drink, it’s time to reconsider. Here are some practical tips that can help you:

• Gradually reduce your alcohol intake, especially if you have existing health conditions.

• Instead of grabbing an alcoholic drink, consider other healthy, non-alcoholic and non-sugary alternatives available in your locality.

• Apart from cutting down your drinking, you can prioritise your health by eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Wrap Up

This new research underscores a sobering truth; even light drinking can be harmful for the elderly (seniors), more so if they have chronic illnesses or low income. By staying informed and making healthy decisions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the hidden dangers of alcohol.

Source: Ortolá, R, Sotos-Prieto, M, García-Esquinas, E., Galán, I, & Rodríguez-Artalejo, F. (2024). Alcohol consumption patterns and mortality among older adults with health-related or socioeconomic risk factors. JAMA Network Open, 7(8), e2424495. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.24495. Available from here.

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Published: September 12, 2024

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