Abstract

Background

Alcohol presents risks to the health of older adults at levels that may have been ‘safer’ earlier in life. Moderate drinking is associated with some health benefits, and can play a positive role in older people’s social lives. To support healthy ageing, we must understand older people’s views with regards to their drinking. This study aims to synthesise qualitative evidence exploring the perceptions and experiences of alcohol use by adults aged 50 years and over.

Methods

A pre-specified search strategy was applied to Medline, PsychINFO, Scopus, Applied Social Sciences...

Abstract

Acute alcohol intoxication (AAI) has a long history of burdening emergency care services. Healthcare systems around the world have explored a variety of different services that divert AAI away from EDs to better manage their condition. Little formal evaluation has been undertaken, particularly in the UK where alcohol misuse is one of the highest in the world. In this article, we outline a brief history of diversionary services, introduce the concept of Alcohol Intoxication Management Services (AIMS) and describe examples of AIMS in the UK. We then describe Evaluating the Diversion of...

Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems (SHAAP) has published its latest report, ‘Dying for a drink’. 

Scottish people tend to consume more alcohol than people in England and Wales. Alcohol is a harmful substance and, consumed in excess, can result in serious social, physical and mental health problems. Rates of alcohol related deaths in Scotland have been steadily decreasing since 2000 however the downward trend is levelling off. 

The purpose of the document is to gather information that will help develop the understanding of the particular risk factors associated with alcohol-related...