Alcohol Use Across All Ages

Alcohol Use Across All Ages

With the rising case of alcohol-related problems, understanding how alcohol intake changes in relation to the age of a person is a key factor in determining the right diagnosis and treatment to people experiencing the problem.

Let’s take a closer look at alcohol use from infancy to seniors including risks one might encounter upon over consumption of alcohol recommended for their age.


Statistics show that 1 out of 100 children born in the U.S. have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). This is the result when women drink alcohol while pregnant. FASD is characterized by abnormal facial features in children and problems in the nervous system and growth.

Unfortunately, there is currently no known cure for FASD so women who bear a child should be mindful about their alcohol consumption if they don’t want their children to suffer FASD.


Adolescence starts at 12 years old and ends at 17 years old.  This is the stage of development and maturation and studies show that consumption of alcohol during these periods may have a long-lasting effect on a person’s brain development.


Young adulthood starts at age 18 and ends at age 29. This is the period usually characterized by increase alcohol consumption. Those on the lower bracket of this stage however are considered more vulnerable to alcohol abuse due to several factors like lifestyle change and peer pressure.


Midlife starts at age 30 and ends at age 59. This is the time when the effects of drinking from the younger age starts to manifest.  Health problems like alcoholic liver disease, heart problems, circulatory and immune system complications show visible symptoms. 


Due to their age, most, if not all of the senior adults consume less alcohol compared to the young ones. However, the same reason is the major reason why seniors take in prescription drugs which may also make them more vulnerable to other health problems.

Manage your alcohol intake well and make sure you don’t over consume. Remember, too much of anything is always dangerous.


Leave A Response