Alcohol consumption in the United States has declined among several younger age groups, but adults aged 50 to 64 are showing a different trend, according to a new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
The study found that the percentage of US adults who consumed alcohol fell from 69% in 2022 to 68% in 2024. It was the first decline since 2018. However, adults aged 50 to 64 were the only age group in which alcohol consumption continued to increase.
Heavy drinking also showed a different pattern across age groups. Among adults aged 50 to 64, the rate increased from 5.6% in 2018 to 7.7% in 2024. Adults under 40 were the only group to record a decline in heavy drinking during that period.
Overall drinking had increased during the early years of the pandemic. The proportion of US adults consuming alcohol rose from 66% in 2018 to 69% in 2020 and remained at that level in 2022. Heavy drinking also increased during the same period.
Researchers have raised concerns about the health implications of higher alcohol consumption among older adults. Alcohol-associated health risks can become particularly relevant as people age, including risks linked to liver disease and certain cancers.
The changing drinking patterns are also affecting the US nightlife and bar industry. With younger adults drinking less, some venues are increasingly targeting older customers while expanding non-alcoholic beverage options.
The study highlights a broader shift in alcohol consumption across generations, with younger adults cutting back while drinking remains more prevalent among some older age groups.
