Genetic Influences on Alcoholism in Older Adults: A Marker-Based Approach

Alcoholism is a common but little-recognized problem among the elderly.Two-thirds of alcoholics are known to age with the medical and psychosocial sequelae of early-onset alcoholism.The definitions for alcohol abuse and dependence may not apply as easily to older people.Older adults are a heterogeneous group, and risky drinking can be difficult to recognize.Describe the genetic markers and alcoholism in older adults.A bibliographic search was conducted in the ScienceDirect, PubMed, WHO information, and geriatric guidelines databases.The following search terms were used: addictions in the elderly, alcoholism in the elderly, and genetic markers of addictions in the elderly in Spanish and English.Alcohol abuse may be an underestimated problem among aging people.The relationship between alcohol consumption, risk factors, consequences, and reasons for consumption must be studied from different perspectives.Genetic factors show significant evidence of a distinct susceptibility to the development of alcoholism.Research focused on genetic aspects will help to clarify the central mechanisms involved in alcoholism.It is necessary to establish prevention and treatment strategies in older adults with alcoholism that prevent medical complications.