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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Beth Bareham, Professor Eileen KanerORCiD, Professor Barbara HanrattyORCiD
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
Background: Risks of harm from drinking increase with age, as alcohol affects health conditions and medications that are common in later life. Different types of information and experiences affect older people’s perceptions of effects of alcohol on their bodies, which must be navigated when supporting healthier decisions for drinking. Aim: To explore how older people understand effects of alcohol on their health; and how these perspectives are navigated in supportive discussions in primary care to promote healthier alcohol use.Design and Setting: A qualitative study consisting of semi-structured interviews and focus groups with older (≥65 years) non-dependent drinkers and primary care practitioners in Northern England.Method: Twenty-four older adults and 35 primary care practitioners participated in interviews and focus groups. Data were analysed thematically, applying principles of constant comparison.Results: Older adults were motivated to make changes to their alcohol use when they experienced symptoms, and if they felt that limiting consumption would enable them to maintain their quality of life. The results of alcohol-related screening were useful to provide insights into the potential effects for individuals. Primary care practitioners motivated older people to make healthier decisions by highlighting individual risks of drinking, and potential gains of limiting intake. Conclusion: Later life is a time when older people may be open to making changes to their alcohol use, particularly when suggested by practitioners. Older people can struggle to recognise potential risks, or perceive little gain in acting upon perceived risks. Such perceptions may be challenging to navigate in supportive discussions.
Author(s): Bareham BK, Kaner E, Hanratty B
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: British Journal of General Practice
Year: 2020
Volume: 70
Issue: 701
Pages: e916-e926
Print publication date: 26/11/2020
Online publication date: 19/10/2020
Acceptance date: 18/05/2020
Date deposited: 21/10/2020
ISSN (print): 0960-1643
ISSN (electronic): 1478-5242
Publisher: Royal College of General Practitioners
URL: https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp20X713405
DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20X713405
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