여성 독거노인의 음주 영향요인

Abstract

Objectives: This study attempted to find factors leading to the consumption of alcohol (drinking) and suggest measures on prevention and coping of alcohol drinking among the female elderly living alone. Methods: This study analyzed data of 2,476 elderly (2,101 women and 375 men) living alone who were 60 years or older using ‘2008 National Elderly Survey on Living Conditions and Need for Welfare’. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to study the factors leading to drinking among the elderly. Results: The results of multiple logistic regression analysis showed that experience of abuse as well as the relationship with and financial support from sibling influenced alcohol drinking of the female elderly. However, the relationship with friends and family and health-related factors including subjective health status influenced alcohol consumption behavior of the male elderly. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that policies on the prevention of abuse and provision of social support for the elderly women living alone are required. Alcohol policies for the elderly need to consider the distinguishing factors of alcohol consumption between male and female elderly.