VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Feb. 20, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Baby boomers—the generation ages 50-69—now account for 23 percent of the American population—a figure that has doubled since the 1970’s. As many of them transition into their retirement years, almost 1/4 of America’s population will be at risk of depression and developing a serious problem with alcohol.
In addition to dealing with upcoming retirement, for many women, the fact that their children have most likely moved out and created families of their own can lead to empty nest syndrome.
US estimates put the rate of problem drinking among adults 60 and up at 17 percent – with 27 percent of women and 49 percent of men between the ages of 75 and 85 drinking beyond the recommended guidelines for their age.
A Canadian study found daily drinking increased 9 times for people 65 and up compared to people aged 18-29. Most troubling of all: one study has found that between 1997 and 2014 binge drinking amongst older women increased nearly four percent per year.
Dr. Diane Rothon of Alavida Health says, “Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by retirees. Many of our older clients came to us after retirement. While their drinking might have been manageable before, things quickly got out of control when they left the workforce.”
While many people dream of the day when they can finally say goodbye to the daily grind of work, few are prepared for the boredom and financial changes retirement brings. The lack of structure and the loss of identity that people associate with work can also trigger depression and anxiety, which drive many retirees to drink.
About Alavida
Alavida Health is a science-based treatment program that combines non-addictive medication, behavioral therapy and technology to help people decrease or stop their consumption of alcohol. Alavida clients work with their doctor and therapist for typically four to six months and can access their doctors in person or virtually, making the access barrier-free. Available in North America since 2016, Alavida currently has offices in Canada and the USA. The treatment model has a success rate of over 75 percent, in line with a clinical study and 20 years of ongoing practice conducted in Finland. More information about Alavida and how treatment works can be found at www.alavida.co.
Contact:
Binu Koshy
Media Relations
P: 905-617-1988
E: Binu@marketingfactory.ca
Christine Gomes
Marketing Manager
E: chris@alavida.co