Did you know that as we age we become more sensitive to the effects of alcohol? The amount of alcohol we were once able to consume safely decreases, and drinking can have additional and serious consequences.

The Province has released a brochure and web-based information to provide guidance on low risk drinking for seniors. These are available at: www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alcohol

Brochures may be ordered by calling the Health and Seniors Information Line toll-free at 1 800 465-4911.

Alcohol can cause a number of health problems. Too much alcohol can contribute to chronic diseases, including cancer and some heart conditions. Almost half of all prescription drugs taken by older people can interact with alcohol. Even the smallest amount of alcohol could negatively impact the effectiveness of medications.

Alcohol-related problems in older adults can be mistaken for physical, social or emotional conditions associated with aging. Problem drinking can place a major burden on families and the health-care system. While there are supports for older adults, it is always a good idea for family and friends to watch for signs that drinking could be a problem.

Providing information and tools for advance care planning is one of the priority actions in the Seniors Action Plan. Through 'Improving Care for B.C. Seniors: An Action Plan', the Province is building a more-accessible, transparent and accountable approach to seniors' care. The plan contains specific deliverables to help seniors and their families navigate the health system, easily access information about care options and have a clear and simple way to register complaints and have their concerns addressed.

You can review the action plan online at: www.SeniorsBC.ca

Help shape the implementation by sending ideas to: SeniorsActionPlan@gov.bc.ca

Quote:

Ron Cantelon, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors to the Minister of Health -

"We are hoping British Columbians realize that as they age, their bodies treat alcohol differently and this can have a greater effect on their lives. This new brochure acts as a guide by highlighting some of the adjustments we need to be aware of as we age in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle."

Quick Facts:

* In British Columbia, per capita alcohol consumption has increased by eight per cent since 2002 and corresponding health harms have also increased.

* Problem drinking often goes unnoticed because many older adults prefer to drink alone in the privacy of their homes.

* Most B.C. seniors drink moderately, but an estimated nine per cent regularly consume alcohol at levels that put them at increased risk for injuries, cognitive impairment and mental-health disorders.

* Falls are the most common cause of injury among British Columbia seniors. Adding alcohol to the mix increases the risk of injury by falling and can lead older adults to lose their independence.

* Cutting back on alcohol, even by a little, can reduce the risk of many illnesses and health effects.

Learn More:

* For more information on alcohol and aging, visit: www.seniorsbc.ca/activeaging/alcohol

* To receive brochures on alcohol and aging, as well as additional support, call the Health and Seniors Information Line at 1 800 465-4911 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday (excluding holidays).

* For alcohol and drug information, referral services and counselling, call the Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Service 24/7 at 1 800 663-1441.

* To speak to a registered nurse about any of your health concerns, call HealthLinkBC 24/7 at 8-1-1, or 7-1-1 for the hearing impaired.

* For tips on how to be healthy at any age, visit: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca

Media Contact:

Ryan Jabs

Media Relations Manager

Ministry of Health

250 952-1887 (media line)

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect