An exploration of how social context and type of living arrangement are linked to alcohol consumption amongst older Australians

Abstract

Despite the potential public health risks associated with alcohol use among old people, relatively little research in this area has been conducted in Australia. Research shows social connectedness is integral to the health of older people, yet the relationship between social connectedness and alcohol use is complex, with a dearth of research exploring the context in which older people socialise and drink alcohol. The project adopted a mixed-methods design, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches, to explore the links between social context and alcohol consumption among 42 Australians, aged 65-74 years inclusive. The research specifically explored: > socialisation and alcohol: the meanings older Australian ascribe to their alcohol consumption practices; > setting and alcohol use: use of alcohol by older people living in private dwellings versus retirement villages; and > risk and restraint: factors that lead to increased use of alcohol and factors that restrain consumption in different settings.