The Raritan Valley YMCA (www.raritanvalleyymca.org) has teamed up with the Middlesex County Office of Aging & Disabled Services at 732-745-3295 to increase public awareness of services and opportunities for county seniors, the disabled, and their caregivers.
Consuming alcohol is common as we age. Alcohol consumption may be used to enhance an individual's mood at a social event or party, or as a way of coping with a difficult symptom like insomnia. Although it is more common for drinking and alcohol problems in younger adults, alcohol in older adulthood can bring specific risks for seniors.
As we age, our body’s intolerance for alcohol lowers. Older adults can experience the effects of alcohol more quickly and this can put you at higher risks for falls, car crashes and other unintentional injuries.
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According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, certain health problems are common in older adults. With heavy drinking these problems can worsen including:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Congestive heart failure
- Liver problems
- Osteoporosis
- Memory problems
- Mood disorders
It is also important to know that many prescription and over-the-counter medications can be dangerous or deadly when mixed with alcohol. Some examples of medications that can interact badly with alcohol are:
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- Aspirin
- Cough syrup
- Pain medication
Don’t forget that alcohol use can remain a part of a healthy lifestyle. But you should avoid using alcohol as a means of dealing with problems such as depression or pain.
For general health information and area wide programs and services for senior citizens and disabled persons residing in the county visit https://www.middlesexcountynj....
For exercise class schedules and membership information stop by the YMCA at 144 Tices lane or call 732-257-4114.
