What is the effect of regular alcohol consumption on older adults?

Regular alcohol consumption affects older adults primarily due to physiological changes that occur with aging. As people age, their body composition changes, which includes a decrease in total body water. Since alcohol is water-soluble, a lower body water content means that the concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream will be higher for a given amount of alcohol consumed. Consequently, this leads to a lower tolerance for alcohol among older adults.

As tolerance decreases, older adults may experience the effects of alcohol more acutely or quickly than younger individuals, making them more susceptible to the risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as falls, injuries, and cognitive impairment. Understanding this aspect can inform better dietary and health recommendations for older individuals concerning alcohol intake, aiming to promote safety and overall well-being.