Here's some good news to begin the festive season on: Older women who drink in moderation can not only expect an increased quality of life (surprise, surprise), but should also expect to live longer, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Depending on alcohol volume, the study says that older women who enjoy 1 - 2 drinks a day, or 3 - 6 drinks per week are more likely to live longer and happier lives than those who drink rarely, or who don't drink at all. "The results of this study indicate that moderate alcohol intake in keeping with current guidelines may carry some health benefits for older women," says lead author Dr. Julie Ellen Byles.
The findings come from The Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health, where researchers have tracked roughly 12,000 women in their 70s over a 6-year period. Other independent studies have also shown that moderate drinkers have a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and stroke compared with non-drinkers. The latest findings stand in stark contrast to previous studies that suggest moderate drinking by older women could lead to accidents, or hasten the onset of cancers and dementia.
Despite the positive findings associated with the occasional tipple, researchers say that this should not be seen as a reason for non-drinkers to suddenly begin drinking. They add that those who do decide to change their intake should seek medical advice regarding any complications associated with mixing alcohol and medications.
Source: Blackwell Publishing
