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Drinking in the UK: An exploration of trends

in
Publisher: 
Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF)
Author: 
Lesley Smith and David Foxcroft
Date published: 
11 May, 2009
Region: 
United Kingdom

Publication type: 
research
Publication link: 
Drinking in the UK: An exploration of trends
Featured item on home page: 
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Increases in alcohol intake among middle and older age groups 
 
This evidence based review assessed research findings to evaluate trends in alcohol intake of the general population in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales over the last 20 to 30 years.
It illustrates how trends vary according to age, sex, ethnicity, socio-economic status and geographic region. The researchers also provide possible explanations for developments. A notable trend from this review includes the steady increase in drinking among middle and older age groups.
Reason for the observed trends vary from increased awareness on the benefits of consuming red wine in later life, to  boredom, loneliness and difficulties with adjusting to a change in role such as caring for older relations or coping with children leaving home.
 
Other reasons include greater affluence, earlier retirement and more free time, greater health and even the idea that older people are developing a “younger outlook on life”. However, higher levels of anxiety were also associated with regular drinking.
 
The review report examines the suggestion that awareness campaigns mainly focus on a younger age cohort and the distressing effects of binge drinking. It suggests that older people may be unaware of the recommended limits and health risks due to a lack of information on the negative impact of habitual drinking where middle-aged and older-aged adults may be exceeding daily and weekly recommended limits. At the same time, media reports have focused on higher levels of drinking among older people, relating this to boredom, worry of getting older, early retirement and isolation from families.
 
Finally the review concludes that it is likely to be the wealthier, better-off individuals who are drinking more and enjoying their life with fewer dependants. Suggested Important areas to focus research into the future include: increases in drinking and gender, or living alone rather than with a spouse or partner, or even living in a residential setting.
This evidence review is available in full at:
www.jrf.org.uk/sites/files/jrf/UK-alcohol-trends-FULL.pdf
 
  

 

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