All Policies Include Coronavirus Cover
Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
25 August 2017 11:33
Drinking is becoming a problem among the over-50s, experts warn
Experts have warned that many so-called baby boomers are drinking too much alcohol.
Writing in the British Medical Journal, they say substance misuse among the over-50s is a "rapidly growing problem".
The rise of risky drinking
Researchers say so-called "risky drinking" is becoming a problem particularly among older women. Many of these may have been affected by issues such as retirement, loneliness or a change in home situation, say the experts.
Some older people choose to visit friends and relatives overseas in such circumstances. The over-65s can arrange specialist seniors travel insurance.
Rahul Rao, visiting researcher at the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust and Ann Roche, director of the National Centre for Training and Addiction at Flinders University in Australia, say there is a "strong upward trend for episodic heavy drinking" among people aged 50 and over.
"A lack of sound alcohol screening to detect risky drinking may result in a greater need for treatment, longer duration of treatment, heavier use of ambulance services, and higher rates of hospital admission."
Part of the daily routine
Another expert warns that drinking at home is becoming a "normal daily habit" for many baby boomers.
Katherine Brown, director of the Institute of Alcohol Studies, says it is "no surprise" that more over-50s are being affected by alcohol problems.
She explains: "This is the first generation in living memory that has had easy access to cheap alcohol in shops and supermarkets and now we are seeing the consequences in later life."
17 March 2020
Escape it all with a visit to one of the world's hidden island gems.
[more...]
02 July 2021
It's time for some Mediterranean sun and unforgettable sights. Here are five of our favourite must-sees in Malta.
Take your pick of the best beaches in Portugal, spanning more than 500 miles of the Portuguese coastline.
Holidays are back but not quite as we know them. Here's a quick guide to what to expect when travelling to and from green list countries.
28 February 2020
From tulip-filled trips to rose-tinged rests, these destinations are the perfect way to see in the new season.
04 January 2021
Join us on a journey to Ancient Greece to discover more about history's most revered statue.
Head north for a light show like no other. Discover how you can see the Northern Lights for yourself.
Discover more about the magnificent waterfall perched on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
10 December 2020
Don't sleep on the world's most impressive dormant volcano.
A destination that stands head and shoulders above the rest.
19 November 2020
Take a tour of one of South America's most captivating natural landscapes.
Discover the hidden depths of the world's most recognisable desert gorge.