This is cause for concern because of the greater probability of adverse reactions, the possibility of drug interactions and the increased sensitivity of the elderly to drugs. Among elderly Canadians who drink, the percentage consuming alcohol four or more times per week is higher than that of all other age groups. On the other hand, a greater percentage of the elderly report drinking less than once a month compared with the general population. Although older drinkers drink more frequently than younger drinkers, younger drinkers consume more alcohol per drinking occasion. The average Canadian consumes 2.8 drinks per drinking occasion, whereas Canadians aged 55 to 64 years consume 2.3 drinks per occasion and those aged 65 and over consume 1.7 drinks per occasion.
Younger drinkers are more likely than older drinkers to engage in heavy drinking.
Licit Drugs Canadians aged 65 and over are more likely to use sleeping pills than younger Canadians. Those aged 55 to 64 and 65 and over are more likely to use tranquillizers than the younger age groups but are less likely to use diet pills or stimulants and codeine, demerol or morphine than younger Canadians. Because the National Alcohol and Other Drugs Survey does not include institutionalized seniors, it is quite conceivable that rates of prescription drug use are even higher than reported here, as that subpopulation typically receives greater medical care. The survey results indicate that the number of elderly people in Canada who use illicit drugs is negligible. The percentage of current drinkers who report drinking to feel good, to relax, to forget worries and to feel less inhibited tends to decrease with age.