Drinking problems in the over 65s are an increasing concern. Alcohol carries more risks for older people due in part to potential existing health problems and interactions with medications.
Evidence also suggests older people tend to drink more – possibly due to its availability and relative affordability. Interview groups informed the design and strategy of research projects in this area, which have highlighted how social dynamics can lead to increased drinking in old age, and a general lack of awareness about the dangers of alcohol.
A follow-up study which measured levels of home drinking focused on the disconnect between estimates of alcohol units consumed versus the reality: this broke down barriers and stigma around the little-studied topic of older adult drinking. The relaxed café setting we used was crucial to achieving this and Connect Nottingham will deliver many more benefits of this type. One visitor said they were not accustomed to analysing how they drink and hadn’t considered this to be an emotional or sensory experience before engaging with us.