Alcohol Problems Can Sneak Up On Seniors

Alcohol problems don't go away with age. In fact, the bar seems to get lower for the amount of alcohol that causes problems as we age.


If you look at a simple alcohol problem self-screening questionnaire, you will notice a rather cruel twist - - ->> males under 65 are warned to check further if they have more that 14 drinks per day or more than 5 on any one day, but over 65 the threshold drops to 7 drinks per week.


It must be that same metabolism thing that causes us to need fewer calories as we get older. Still, think of it. If I am cruising along at 9 drinks a week, it's likely ok, but let a few years pass and those same 9 drinks per week start to spell trouble.


The thing a alcohol use is that we are usually the last one to figure out that we have a problem.


If any of the screening questions raise a red flag, take the time to check it out with a professional.


Senior sex and senior relationships are very vulnerable to alcohol problems. If continuing your sex life is of interest, then a hard look at alcohol use is in order.