Mission Ready at Every Age: Navigating Alcohol Sensitivity & Health Risks for Aging Adults

As we age, our bodies change in many ways, including how we process alcohol. For older adults, even small amounts of alcohol can have a big impact on mental and physical health. By understanding these changes, you can stay mission ready for every stage of your service and life.

Why Are Older Adults More Sensitive to Alcohol?

Aging affects the body’s response to alcohol in several ways:

• Slower Metabolism: As we get older, our bodies break down alcohol more slowly. This means alcohol stays in the system longer, maintaining its effects.
• Less Body Water: Older adults have less water in their bodies, so alcohol becomes more concentrated in the bloodstream.
• Increased Brain Sensitivity: The aging brain is more sensitive to alcohol, which can affect memory, balance, and decision-making.
• Cognitive Health: Alcohol can worsen memory problems and increase confusion, making it harder to stay sharp and mission ready. Read this article for more details.
• Mental Health: Drinking alcohol can increase feelings of depression or anxiety, which are already more common in later years. Check out this article for more details.
• Physical Health: Alcohol raises the risk of falls, injuries, and chronic conditions like high blood pressure and liver disease. When you’re older, this can threaten your mobility and independence.

The Dangers of Mixing Alcohol with Medications

Many older adults take medications to treat health conditions. Mixing alcohol with these medications can be dangerous. It can lead to:

• Increased Side Effects: Alcohol can make medication side effects worse, such as drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion.
• Reduced Effectiveness: Some medications may not work as well when combined with alcohol.
• Serious Health Risks: Certain combinations can lead to life-threatening problems, like internal bleeding or heart issues.

Please refer to this article on the Own Your Limits (OYL) website for more details about the dangers of mixing alcohol with medications.

Strategies for Healthier Choices

• Seek Supportive Networks: Connect with friends, family, or support groups who respect your decision to cut back or quit alcohol. Military OneSource and local community centers offer resources and social opportunities for older adults and veterans.
• Engage in Fulfilling, Alcohol-Free Activities: Find new ways to enjoy your time—try volunteering, joining a club, or exploring hobbies. These activities can boost your mood and help you stay mission ready.
• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how alcohol might interact with your medications. Staying healthy is a life-long commitment. Being informed helps you make decisions that support your force readiness and overall well-being.

Resources

If you need help to quit or limit your drinking, the Department of Defense provides screenings to help identify what type of support you need and what treatment would work best for you. They offer inpatient, partial inpatient, and outpatient treatment options.

Military OneSource
Support for Military Personnel & Families | Military OneSource is a DoD-supported service offering 24/7 confidential support and specializes in helping military members, families, and veterans. Services are provided by CONUS and OCONUS via call-in, live chat, and text on their website and mobile app.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
You may also call the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free and confidential treatment referral and information service (provided in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Check out additional resources for service members here.