Last time, in our Aging Healthy series, we looked at sleep and provided some suggestions to promote a better night’s sleep. Today, we’re going to talk about the reasons to stop smoking, as well as limiting use of alcohol and other substances.

Over the years, many studies have shown that quitting smoking has a positive impact on our health. National Institutes of Health studies tell us that quitting at any age, even after decades of smoking, can still have positive impacts on our health by:

• Lowering the risk of cancer, heart attack, stroke, and lung disease.
• Improving blood circulation.
• Enhancing the sense of taste and smell.
• Increasing the ability to exercise.
• Setting a healthy example for others.

There are so many great reasons to stop smoking besides improving your health. You’ll save money, have more energy, and breathe easier. But, stopping the habit can prove difficult for many. Smokefree.gov has some tips and support options, and the National Institute on Aging also offers advice to quit smoking.

Limiting the amount of alcohol consumed also is something many know is a good idea. National Institutes of Health research states: “Like all adults, older adults should avoid or limit alcohol consumption. In fact, aging can lead to social and physical changes that make older adults more susceptible to alcohol misuse and abuse and more vulnerable to the effects of alcohol. Alcohol dependence or heavy drinking affects every organ in the body, including the brain.”

In addition to alcohol consumption, older adults and caregivers should be aware of other substances that can be abused or misused. Commonly prescribed drugs, such as opioids used to manage pain and benzodiazepines for anxiety and sleeping problems, can become misused and lead to substance dependencies and abuses. If you or a caregiver is concerned about the use of these medications, consult your healthcare provider to learn more.

Knowing the need for change doesn’t mean everyone can or will change, of course. Some people simply aren’t ready or willing. The National Institutes of Health also provides some helpful tips through its National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, suggesting individuals should:

• Learn about the current federal guidelines about drinking and when to avoid alcohol completely.
• Know how much you’re drinking and the harm that drinking can cause
• Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional if you or a loved one needs help with substance abuse or alcohol use.
• Find a support group for older adults with substance or alcohol abuse issues.

For more information on alcohol and your health, visit the National Institutes of Health’s Rethinking Drinking webpage.

Next time, we will talk about healthcare checkups and regular screenings. Visit the Aging Healthy blog series feed to find all current posts.

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