Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Alcohol and Memory: Cognitive Consequences of Drinking in Older Adults
Publication Date
2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Psychological Science, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Dr. Michael Oliver
Presentation Type
Metadata Only
Abstract
In 2024, approximately 6.5 million adults aged 65 and older reported heavy drinking. Research consistently shows that alcohol use, regardless of amount, can negatively affect cognition. Although older adults are known to be more vulnerable to these effects, few studies have examined how light to moderate alcohol consumption influences cognitive performance in this population. To address this gap, the present study investigated the relationship between alcohol intake and memory recall. We hypothesized that light to moderate alcohol consumption would be associated with lower immediate and delayed recall scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Data were drawn from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project through the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR). The final sample included 3,051 participants who reported lifestyle and health information, including drinking habits. Results from a one-way ANOVA showed significant differences in memory performance (p < .001). Nondrinkers scored highest, while light drinkers performed lowest on both recall measures. Moderate and heavy drinkers scored slightly higher than light drinkers but remained below nondrinkers. These findings indicate that alcohol consumption is linked to poorer memory in older adults. The unexpected result that light drinkers performed worse than moderate or heavy drinkers suggests that other factors, such as health status or lifestyle, may influence these outcomes. Overall, this study highlights the importance of educating older adults about the cognitive risks of alcohol use and informing public health guidelines that promote healthy aging.
Recommended Citation
Akbari, Aram; Clark, Jasmine; Medina, Angel; Hill, Jonathan; and Oliver, Michael, "Alcohol and Memory: Cognitive Consequences of Drinking in Older Adults" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 273.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/273
