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Is Alcohol Allowed in Assisted Living Facilities?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
With over a decade of dedicated experience, Andrea Miller boasts an extensive background in healthcare writing and editing. Her expertise spans various facets of the healthcare industry, with a particular focus on nursing, senior care, Alzheimer’s disease, and public health. Andrea has also contributed her editorial talents to reputable publishers in the Philadelphia region, complementing her extensive freelance work.
Alcohol is allowed in many assisted living facilities, but some have rules against drinking on the grounds. Up to two-thirds of adults between the ages of 50 and 80 drink alcohol occasionally. Review facility policies about alcohol closely, whether you want to be able to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or prefer a sober environment.
What rules do assisted living facilities have about alcohol?
Each assisted living facility sets its own rules about alcohol as long as the policy complies with state and local laws. Common rules include allowing residents to drink in private areas but not public spaces, limiting the number of alcoholic drinks served with meals or having alcohol only at designated social events.
Is alcohol safe for older adults?
Alcohol is safe for some older adults, but they should stick to the recommended limit of no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks a day for men. Under this recommendation, a drink is a 1.5-ounce serving of liquor, a 12-ounce beer or a 5-ounce glass of wine. Alcohol has a stronger effect on older people, and some individuals should completely avoid alcohol.
It’s not safe for adults to drink when they have cancer, substance use disorder, liver disease or a severe mental illness. Talk to your doctor before drinking if you take prescription or over-the-counter medications, including acetaminophen, pain medication, sleeping pills, allergy medications and aspirin. Many drugs negatively interact with alcohol, leading to unwanted side effects. In addition, alcohol consumption worsens some health problems. Examples include mood disorders, diabetes, osteoporosis, congestive heart failure, hypertension and diabetes.