The Rationality of "Graduating from Alcohol" at 70 - The End of the "Moderation Myth"? An Update on Abstinence and Neuroscience: WHO Says "No Safe Amount"

The German newspaper Fuldaer Zeitung has compiled the latest trends regarding alcohol consumption in old age and the risk of dementia. Neurologist Dr. Restak recommends "abstaining from alcohol by the age of 70 at the latest," while the WHO states that "there is no amount of alcohol that is harmless to health." Meanwhile, observational studies have spread results suggesting that "moderate drinkers have a lower risk of dementia," fueling ongoing debate. Practically, it is reasonable to aim for "graduating from alcohol" between the ages of 65 and 70, managing to not exceed 24g of pure alcohol per day, and implementing early care for hearing and vision, as well as multifaceted strategies involving exercise, sleep, social interaction, and nutrition. On social media, voices supporting abstinence (such as those with caregiving experience) clash with arguments defending moderate consumption. In conclusion, the principle that "less is safer" should be followed, and individual circumstances should be discussed with healthcare professionals for a realistic solution.