As people grow older, they may well continue the drinking habits developed over years, without realising that the effect that alcohol has on their body becomes stronger and more prolonged with age.

Older people are more prone to adverse effects because they are more strongly affected by alcohol than younger people.  This is because of changes in the way the body processes alcohol as a person ages. 

Some points to consider are:

	Drinking can cause stomach upsets, which can lead to sickness and indigestion.
	The liver becomes less efficient at breaking down alcohol as people age.
	While a drink makes the body feel warm, it actually speeds up the loss of body heat and may increase the risk of hyperthermia.
	A healthy diet is a particularly important way for older people to maintain their good health.  Alcohol affects appetite and digestion and someone who drinks too much may not be eating properly.  Extra vitamins and proteins may be needed.
	The risk of having an accident, such as falling over, is always higher after a drink.
	Alcohol is a diuretic, making you need to urinate more frequently, and dehydration may be the result.
	Drinking may send us to sleep, but it can also upset the natural sleep pattern.
	Excessive drinking can cause diseases of the liver, heart, stomach, chest, kidneys and throat.  Cutting down on alcohol consumption will help you avoid these other problems.
	The greatest danger comes from mixing alcohol with prescribed drugs.  In many cases alcohol makes the effect of medicines stronger, or cause side effects such as headaches, upset stomach or flushes.

Older people who have been regular drinkers all their lives may need to cut down their consumption by at least half.  For some older people with particular health problems, espcially those on medication, it may be best not to drink at all.