It is especially serious in older people, who often have other medical problems that are made worse by alcohol use. Many factors may lead to alcohol dependence. Two out of three older alcoholics have always been heavy users. One of the three started drinking later in life, often after retirement. Starting to drink late in life is often due to grief, loneliness, depression, or boredom.
Many alcoholics become able to drink ever larger amounts of alcohol before feeling or seeming drunk.
Alcohol users often drink to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Many doctors may not consider the possibility of alcohol dependence or they tend to overlook it. You or a family member may need to bring up the subject. The diagnosis of alcohol dependence is based on how you use alcohol and the effects of alcohol on your life or family. Your doctor will take a careful medical history of your symptoms.