Wellness Corner

There is a new study being undertaken which addresses a topic that isn't often covered by medical researchers. The topic is that of risky drinking. Sure, we hear a lot about the risks of drinking but most of those studies are related to the problems that occur when teens and young adults engage in risky drinking behavior. It's not nearly as common to study the effects of risky drinking on seniors over the age of 55 which is precisely what this study is doing.

"It is now estimated that 60% of older people coming into hospital because of repeated falls, confusion, chest infections and heart failure have undiagnosed alcohol problems." (source)

One of the things that the study wants to find out is whether or not the researchers are correct in their hypothesis that older people suffer the consequences of risky drinking at a much lower consumption rate of younger people. The study will also explore what can be done to treat seniors who have been identified as having this problem.

Question of the Day: How does risky drinking impact the elderly?

photo link