Riverside, California – As the baby boomer generation continues to age, doctors are raising concerns about the long-term impact of their alcohol consumption habits. A demographic timebomb looms as boomers carry their drinking habits into old age, resulting in a significant increase in alcohol-related deaths among individuals aged 55 to 64.
From 1999 to 2020, there was a staggering 237 percent surge in alcohol-related deaths among those over 55, a trend exacerbated by the stress of the ongoing pandemic. Despite advancements in healthcare and social status, the boomer generation faces a public health crisis due to their persistent alcohol consumption.
The prevalence of drinking in the 55 to 64 age group has increased by 15.7 percent, leading to a surge in the number of drinkers by 80.2 percent. The consequences of heightened drinking during the pandemic are predicted to have lasting effects for years to come, with liver damage remaining the most lethal effect of long-term alcohol use.
Experts note that alcohol consumption among older Americans has not declined over the years, with binge drinking in the 55 to 64 age bracket increasing by 40 percent from 2003 to 2018. This trend is particularly noticeable among women, who have shown an even greater incline in alcohol consumption compared to men.
Keith Humphreys, a psychologist and addiction researcher at Stanford, attributes the increase in alcohol consumption among boomer women to cultural shifts and increased disposable income. Boomers, particularly women, have continued to drink at higher rates compared to previous generations, challenging stereotypes about alcohol consumption among certain demographics.
The impact of alcohol consumption among aging boomers is compounded by the interaction with medications commonly prescribed for age-related conditions. Mixing alcohol with pain medications and sleep aids can lead to detrimental effects, exacerbating cognitive impairments and certain health conditions.
Despite the challenges and risks associated with alcohol consumption among older adults, access to treatment for substance use disorders remains limited under Medicare coverage. As the boomer generation ages, healthcare providers emphasize the importance of addressing alcohol consumption and providing appropriate support to moderate drinking habits.