Invisible drinkers: Seniors

September is Healthy Aging Month. Aging well means more than steady exercise, better eating habits with less fat and more veggies, and adequate sleep. Healthy aging also requires keeping the mind active with some form of lifelong learning (even if it's just fodder for crossword puzzles), and keeping it healthy with positive attitudes and rewarding interactions with others.

Mental health can be a challenge for older generations, perhaps more so than their families realize. A recent study showed that "hidden" alcohol abuse among seniors is more prevalent than once thought. In most cases it initiated during periods of loneliness, boredom and depression. Worse, the study indicated that the situation is growing, likely because life spans have increased.

The University of Sunderland and Newcastle University in the United Kingdom, in collaboration with the charity Age UK and health service management company South of Tyne and Wear PCT, for two years assessed the extent of alcohol abuse among men and women aged 51 to 90. They also reviewed available data from 47 health service providers. They found, at least in Britain, 23 percent of men and 8 percent of women drink more than recommended limits. The "problem" drinkers are not described as social drinkers, but those who drink at home and generally alone, feeling isolated and ashamed.

Concerns include fallout from life changes common to older people, such as retirement and bereavement. Despite the fact that these issues can eventually reach everyone, there is a paucity of research in this area. This study on "invisible addicts" is catching global attention.

Unlike young drinkers, older folks drink most often in their homes and unseen, making the phenomenon underdetected and underreported. There is also a cultural hesitation to do something about it; people are more hesitant to suggest advice to older people than to younger. The research team's previous work concluded that even when clinicians were encouraged to screen for excessive alcohol use, they often failed to deliver health-promoting advice to older people. Nurses reported they also worried about depriving seniors of the "social benefits of drinking."

Respect for elders isn't a bad thing, but ignoring the potential underlying depression certainly is. After the spike in suicide rates in young adulthood, the next highest category is seniors.

As Ann Crosland, professor of nursing at the University of Sunderland and lead researcher told Science Daily, "The need to establish an understanding for the problems faced by this generation has now become urgent. It would be a sad reflection on society if we just ignore this."

The British health service will assess the data for recommendations to caregivers. Here in the states we could use the study as a springboard for more attention to the problem and societal discussion. More importantly, it serves as a reminder to check in with older friends and relatives, visit, and look for signs of loneliness, depression, or the need to connect with others - so basic to human health at any age.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at sholehjo@hotmail.com.