The alcohol behaviour of independent older people in Denmark

Abstract

Purpose One of the aims of a recently completed Danish national study initiated by the Danish Association of Senior Citizens was to assess the alcohol behaviour of persons aged 65 years and over living independently in their own homes. Design and methods A representative sample of 600 independent persons aged 65 years and over took part in a national telephone survey to elucidate alcohol behaviour. Results The results of this part of the study reveal that 15 per cent of independent older people, corresponding to almost 100,000 persons, have potentially harmful alcohol behaviour—in particular older men and older people not living alone. Over 40 per cent of older men compared with just over 20 per cent of older women drink alcohol at least 4 days per week. Furthermore, older people exhibit strikingly different responses in relation to their own alcohol actions and their attitudes. Implications Since even moderate alcohol consumption levels become more harmful in old age, the results suggest that alcohol restraint campaigns in Denmark should address the alcohol and ageing issue more explicitly.