Reviewed by a board-certified geriatrician
As we age, the body handles alcohol, nicotine and medicines differently. The same amount can have a stronger effect, and mixing them can lead to falls, confusion or other problems. A few simple checks go a long way.
Alcohol
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests that healthy adults over 65 have no more than 7 drinks a week, and no more than 3 on any one day. Less is better, and some people should not drink at all, including anyone taking medicines that cause drowsiness, or who has had falls or memory changes. One drink is a 12 oz beer, 5 oz of wine or 1.5 oz of liquor.
Smoking and vaping
It is never too late to quit. Breathing, circulation and heart health start to improve within weeks. Free help is available from the Hawaii Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), and your doctor can help with medicines that make quitting easier.
Medicines
Many older adults take several prescriptions, plus vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter products. Together they can cause dizziness, confusion or falls.
Keep an up-to-date list of everything you take, including supplements, and bring it to every visit.
Once a year, ask your doctor or pharmacist to review the list. Ask: "Do I still need each of these?"
Be careful with over-the-counter sleep and allergy products (often labeled "PM"), which can cause confusion and falls.
Do not stop a prescription on your own. Some need to be tapered slowly.
Cannabis
Cannabis, including edibles, can affect balance, thinking and blood pressure, and can interact with other medicines. If you use it, tell your doctor.