This study proposes to examine how drinking trajectories among older persons change over the life course. Trajectories refer to behaviors that change over time. Rather than characterize individuals as simply abstainers or heavy drinkers, trajectories emphasize that alcohol use may increase, decrease, accelerate, decelerate or even reverse course. Further, these patterns of drinking over time are hypothesized to be influenced by changes in life circumstances, such as transitions into new social roles (e.g. retirement) and states of health, as well as by the presence of stressors. Additionally, the study will explore the extent to which there are gender differences in drinking trajectories. The study will analyze data from a nationally representative longitudinal survey of 2,200 persons in Japan. Alcohol use was ascertained at five time points, once every three years, beginning from 1987 to 1999. A growth curve approach will be used to statistically model these trajectories. Multinomial logistic regression will be used to investigate the role of potential factors that may influence the course of these trajectories.
For more information please contact: Gilbert Gee.