Though alcohol is an important part of Americans, there exists a very thin line between alcoholism and casual drinking. Over 15 million Americans above the age of 18 have been reported to be diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. And this issue is very common among our seniors.
It was reported that over three-fourth quarters of elderly people are highly prone to alcohol. This number is expected to increase within four decades because the elderly population will increase to 80 million.
Before we look into the issues of alcoholism within our seniors, let us first understand the details of alcohol and addiction.
What is alcohol addiction?
Addiction is a process wherein an individual gets heavily dependent on a substance despite life-threatening consequences. This addiction is as dangerous as any life-threatening disease such as cancer.
However, people visualize alcohol intake as a choice, even if it is detrimental to their health. It is also reported that along with some unhealthy alcohol choice, people are heavily dependent on drugs such as heroin, opium, and even cannabis.
What are the major causes of heavy drinking among people?
- Due to idleness
An empty mind is said to be a devil's workshop. When there is nothing to do, especially unemployment, cases like these get on the rise.
- For pleasure
Some people visualize alcohol as a means of pleasure. However, some good time with people around is all they require.
- Curiosity
Some want to find out about alcohol and its types. They want to discover what alcohol makes them feel like.
- To focus
To some people, a bit of alcohol kicks them to start their work. This is usually true for people working under harsh climatic conditions or under intense pressure.
- Peer pressure
To fit into the group and make them sound cool, some people venture into drinking.
- Stress buster
To some, alcohol lets them forget their worries and keep stress away.
Every heavy drinker begins with the causes mentioned above. However, these causes become a habit that makes them addicted to alcohol within a short span. With every increase in intake, they tend to increase their tolerance levels towards alcohol. This amount will vary among individuals. And when tried to abstain, these individuals usually suffer from withdrawal symptoms affecting their mental health.
What are the symptoms of heavy drinking?
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Short term memory loss
- Weight fluctuations
- Mood swings
- Anti-social behavior
- Hanging along with addicts
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Depression
- Liver disease
- Bloodshot eyes
These symptoms can vary according to individuals. Even the severity of these symptoms can differ because not every heavy alcohol drinker experiences the same symptoms.
Occurrence of Alcoholism with the seniors
The National Council on Alcohol and Drug dependence has reported that over 11% of elderly hospital admissions occur due to Alcohol-related problems. In addition, over 14% of admissions are due to Alcohol-related emergency visits, and over 20% of admissions due to Alcohol-related deteriorating mental health.
Some studies have also reported that diagnosis of alcohol abuse within the old is difficult compared to the young. However, this condition can be termed an epidemic and is certainly on the rise among independent seniors. Their independent life makes them turn towards drinking with no nursing and care, making them highly addicted to it.
Why are seniors at high risk?
Studies have reported that the effects of alcohol are more severe in the old than in the young. But, again, this is because age and physiology is an important factor here.
- Less water in the body
As you begin to age, the amount of water that makes up your body gets reduced to almost 15%. This puts pressure on the kidneys to work efficiently, causing frequent dehydration. Consumption of Alcohol makes this condition all the more severe.
- Less muscle mass
Though your gastrointestinal tract absorbs a small quantity of alcohol, your muscles are fast enough to absorb it. But as we age, the muscle tone decreases, causing the alcohol to be present in the bloodstream for longer durations.
- Liver disease
The liver is the only organ that detoxifies alcohol and other toxic substances. As we age, the functionality of the liver can decrease. This heavy alcohol intake puts all the more pressure on the liver, causing cirrhosis leading to liver failure.
-Alcohol and other related diseases
Heavy drinking can call in for other health-related diseases that can be difficult to manage, especially in old age. These disorders include;
- Hypertension
According to the American heart association, heavy drinking can increase your blood pressure, increasing the risks of strokes.
- Diabetes
Some studies have revealed that alcohol decreases the efficacy of insulin being injected; it can also affect the pancreases causing it to produce reduced insulin levels.
- Liver disease
Heavy drinking leads to fatty liver disease, which can be further lead to liver cirrhosis and failure.
- Cardiovascular disorder
An increase in blood pressure can increase the chances of cardiovascular disorders like a heart attacks. Drinking Alcohol is a top sign of a Heart Problem.
- Osteoporosis
Alcohol abuse causes bone thinning, making them soft and brittle.
- Mental disorders
Disorders related to depression, anxiety, bipolar, mania, and even schizophrenia.
The bottom line- get help!
No matter what your age is, alcohol is a problem that needs to be solved. The first step is identifying the problem and then seeking for right medical help. Some may even require rehabilitation. The journey towards quitting alcohol will not be easy because withdrawal symptoms will accompany it. However, with the right support and willpower, this process will be attainable.
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