Even moderate amounts of alcohol can have a negative impact on brain health, science tells us. A new study out indicates that moderate drinking–more than three glass of wine per week or two pints of beer–over an extended amount of time leads to a type of brain damage called hippocampal atrophy. Not only does this impair cognitive functioning over the long term, but it also increases the chances of other illnesses. For example, hippocampal atrophy is common in those with Alzheimer’s disease. Now, there’s not a direct causal link between the two as far as researchers can tell now, but the similarities are frightening.
In addition to this major issue, alcohol is known to cause cancer, depression, cirrhosis, and a number of other health issues. Accidents can also occur easily when alcohol is involved. While many people have been educated about the dangers of excessive drinking, there’s often a disconnect between this knowledge and doing something about it. When it occurs in the elderly, especially those in need of in-home care or another type of assistance, the end result can be magnified. Unfortunately, the health of people that we care about is hurt because of this.
This is not to say that the occasional drink or even light drinking is necessarily bad. No negative effects were seen in those that drank an average of two pints of beer or three glasses of wine per week. In fact, researchers have even seen that there might be some health benefits to light drinking. It’s believed that some of the antioxidants found in red wine can have a restorative impact and prevent cancer and other illnesses. But because of its addictive nature, this is an area where precautions must be made.
If you have an elderly loved one that is in need of care, encouraging them to limit their alcohol consumption is a good idea. However, this is also a sensitive subject. Many elderly people that struggle with alcoholism have no intentions of giving up drinking, even if they know that their health and wellbeing is on the line. This is a tough subject to approach, so be sure to use your discretion. While you do care about your family members, talking about alcohol can be damaging to your relationship with them. Be sure to speak to a professional if you have concerns about alcohol consumption in an older loved one for getting expert advice on the best way to approach this.
Love and compassion are necessary no matter what the situation you are up against might be. If you have a parent that is in need of senior care, then as a family member, you should do your best to help point them in the right direction. If you need help with this, be sure to get in touch with us at Paradise In-Home Care. We can schedule a free consultation and help you and your family find the best senior care for your loved one’s unique situation. You can find our number right at the top of this page.
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