When you think of those who may be problem drinkers, typically the younger set comes to mind. Underage drinkers and 20-somethings often — rightfully — get blamed for causing accidents because of drunk driving.
But it turns out that another demographic group is struggling with high-risk drinking and its associated problems.
Senior citizens are abusing alcohol at higher rates
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) conducted research that showed a troubling trend on the rise. Senior citizens are drinking more alcohol and even binge drinking at much higher rates than they previously have.
Research showed that there was a 65% spike in problem-drinking behaviors from 2002 to 2013. Recent research is bringing to light a troubling trend in alcohol abuse: A spike in late-in-life, high-risk drinking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concur, finding that those older than 64 binge drink with the highest frequency. The consequences are profound, as disorders from alcohol abuse have more than doubled in a decade, with a jump of 3% for all senior citizens.
What caused this spike?
According to professionals, the economic recession of 2008 and its accompanying uncertainty led to an uptick in older folks’ alcohol usage. But the problem is that the older we get, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) rises faster than it does with younger imbibers. This causes a slowing of the liver’s ability to metabolize the alcohol.
Could your wreck be due to a senior citizen’s intoxication?
If a drunken senior citizen caused your accident and subsequent injuries and damages, you may need to take further action and file a claim for damages with their insurance company.