Elderly alcohol misuse

Over 800 patient records were analyzed to identify factors related to problem drinking for older adults. Most importantly, the study found that some symptoms, such as those related to emotional distress, and employment status did have an association with problem drinking for older adults. However, these findings suggest that alcohol use throughout life may simply be carried into old age. Finally, the research noted a distinct pattern of drinking for older females in contrast to that of older males. The reasons for these gender differences, as well as a closer examination on the role of retirement and later onset of drinking for older adults, are identified as topics for future research.