Charity calls for more support for older problem drinkers

Age Scotland says more support is desperately needed for older people with drinking problems, as new figures show sky-high rates of alcohol-related hospital admissions for older men.

Data released this week by ISD Scotland show that twice as many men aged 55 to 64 were admitted to hospital for alcohol-related conditions than those in the 25-34 age group.

There were 1625 admissions per 100,000 men for this age group, with problems including mental and mental and behavioural disorders, acute intoxication, long-term alcohol dependence and liver disease.

Although the rate has fallen from a peak in  2007/2008, it has plateaued in recent years, and is substantially higher than 1981/82. The next highest numbers are for men in the 45-54 age group, followed by men aged 65 and older.

The highest rate for women was among those aged 45-54. Men are 2.5 times more likely to be admitted to hospital for alcohol-related problems.

NHS Western Isles and NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde had the highest general acute hospital admission rates, while NHS Ayrshire & Arran and NHS Tayside had the highest admission rates for psychiatric hospitals.

All NHS Boards have seen a reduction in alcohol-related stays since 2007/08, except NHS Lanarkshire (7% increase) and NHS Fife (3% increase). Rates were highest in deprived areas, with patients six times more likely to be admitted with an alcohol-related condition.

NHS research shows that people aged 55 to 64 are the most likely to drink more than the Government-recommended 14 units per week, while around one in 10 of those aged over 65 binge drink.

Brian Sloan, Chief Executive of Age Scotland, said: “Heavy drinking among older people can often be a hidden problem, and it’s likely these new figures are just the tip of the iceberg.

“In some cases people might be heavy drinkers most of their lives, but start to develop health problems in later life. They may have multiple health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, which can exacerbate the problem.

“For others, life changes such as retirement or bereavement can be the trigger for developing a drinking problem. A more relaxed lifestyle in retirement can mean alcohol easily becomes part of a daily routine. Physical ill-health, mobility issues or social isolation can also lead to boredom and depression, which can make people likely to drink more.

“Older people, especially men, often find it difficult to talk about their drinking or mental health, meaning they don’t get the support they need. “There are no easy answers but there is a clear need for more support, especially once people have been discharged from hospital. We also need to do more to tackle Scotland’s epidemic of loneliness and isolation, which is taking a severe toll on older people’s mental health.

“There are already some excellent projects reaching out to older men, such as Men’s Sheds and Walking Football clubs, which give them an opportunity to socialise, share hobbies and talk about any concerns. We also encourage people to plan ahead for their retirement, thinking about a structure for their lives and looking after their health and well-being.”