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Older Adults
Added on 26/03/2010
Alcohol and Older People - taking notice in the South West
The UK population is ageing. In 2008 16% of the population were over 65 and it is projected that this will rise to 23% by 2033. The largest growth will be seen in men over the age of 85 years. The South West region has the highest proportion of people aged 65 years and over has the highest life expectancy for both men and women in England.
A significant number of alcohol related hospital admissions in the SW are among the over 55s. Admissions caused by hypertensive diseases and cardiac arrhythmias are higher in the 65+ age group and admissions caused by accidents and injuries become increasingly more prevalent in the older age groups.
On 19th March 2010 Calling Time - the SW Alcohol Improvement Programme in association with AERC Alcohol Academy hosted a regional Learning and Networking Event focused on alcohol and older people.
View the event presentations
Alcohol use and associated harms amongst older people are largely unaddressed within both alcohol and older people's policy and service developments.
This event explored the challenges and opportunities for national, regional and local leads to better identify, prevent and respond to alcohol harm amongst older people.
Collaboration
Work will continue within the region to ensure that understanding of, and responses to these issues are improved. Communication is key to moving this agenda forward and engaging relevant organisations. If you are involved or interested in these issues please use the SW Discussion Forum on this website to raise relevant issues and queries and share experiences and emerging practice. The Forum is secure and you can register here ...