In the past, I’ve often commented on scientific studies that provided information about the foods seniors should eat in order to promote health and longevity. While it’s long been thought drinking alcohol in moderation may be good for us, more recent studies suggest I should have been writing a blog on wine. 

In a very recent study published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, researchers reviewed 143 studies comprising more than 365,000 participants from 19 countries. Moderate drinkers were found to be 23% less likely to develop signs of memory problems or Alzheimer’s disease. The study could not determine exactly why this is the case, but it’s believed the alcohol plays a role in lessening the inflammation that causes dementia, and is also implicated in heart disease, stroke, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers.

Michael Collins, Ph.D., one of the researchers, has been quoted as saying, “This study is not the final word, but it does provide the most complete picture out there. Low levels of alcohol may have anti-inflammatory effects on the immune system, heart, and brain.” The study also showed that wine drinking was more effective than drinking beer.

Of course, the key to these findings is in the word “moderation.” All alcohol contains calories which can add to weight gain, a considerable health factor, and too much alcohol can lead to many other problems and possible addiction. The study defined moderation as one drink daily for women and two for men. One drink was defined as 1.5 ounces of spirits, 5 ounces of wine, or 12 ounces of beer.

While I personally only have an occasional beer with pizza or Mexican food, and don’t recommend alcohol consumption, I do find this study worthwhile for seniors. Besides, it’s 5 o’clock somewhere.

New Product

Due to her age and a recent stroke, my mother now requires a wheel chair when we take her places. While I’m always happy to push her chair for her, given my height (6′ 4″), the angle at which I have to bend is exactly the angle that causes muscle cramping in my back. I went to the chair manufacturer and retailer looking for a solution, but apparently I’m the only person in the world who has to bend down to push a wheelchair. No solution could be found. At this point, I  went to a local metalwork and welding company. They tried to come up with an answer, but no luck. My next stop was the local hardware store where I was on a mission. You know the feeling of inspiration when you need to construct something, but have no idea of how you are going to do it. Well, long story short, my new invention is complete and works like a champ. My mother and wife have heaped praise on me and the word “genius” has been uttered a time or two. The fact is, it was pretty simple. A little time, some PVC pipe, and a can of liquid rubber was all it took.