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Alcohol use, physical performance, and functional limitations in older men
Peggy M Cawthon1, Howard A Fink, Elizabeth Barrett-Connor
1Research Institute, California Pacific Medical Center, San Francisco, California 94107, USA. pcawthon@sfcc-cpmc.net
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|February 17, 2007
Summary
Moderate alcohol intake in older men is linked to better physical function and fewer daily living limitations. This study found a U-shaped association between drinking habits and physical limitations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Aging is associated with declines in physical performance and increased functional limitations.
- Alcohol consumption patterns vary widely in older populations, with potential impacts on health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between alcohol consumption levels and physical performance in older men.
- To examine the association between alcohol intake and self-reported functional limitations in elderly males.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 5,962 men aged 65 and older across six U.S. clinical centers.
- Assessment of alcohol intake (categorized by drinks/week), problem drinking history (CAGE questionnaire), and sustained excessive drinking.
- Measurement of physical performance (grip strength, leg power, chair stand, walking tests) and self-reported functional limitations.
Main Results:
- Men with low-moderate to high-moderate alcohol intake showed modestly better physical performance (3-5%) compared to abstainers.
- Low-moderate alcohol intake was associated with the lowest odds of limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (OR=0.52).
- A U-shaped relationship was observed between alcohol intake and physical limitations, with lowest odds in low-moderate drinkers.
Conclusions:
- Moderate alcohol consumption is associated with enhanced physical performance in older men.
- Lower odds of functional limitations were observed in older men with moderate alcohol intake.
- Findings suggest a potential benefit of low-to-moderate alcohol intake on physical function in aging males.
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