This is something I’ve been thinking about recently, especially since many older adults are unable to drink alcohol because of medication interactions. While that may not sound like a big issue at first, alcohol is often part of social gatherings, and removing it can feel limiting. With that in mind, here are some ways to stay social without alcohol, along with ideas for alcohol-free alternatives that still feel enjoyable and inclusive.
Adding Alternatives to Your Gatherings
In many social settings, alcohol is a default option. It’s not always possible to avoid it entirely—especially if you’re not the host—but adding appealing non-alcoholic choices can make gatherings more comfortable. Lemonade, flavored waters, iced teas, or simple mocktails are easy options. There are also non-alcoholic beers and wines available now. It’s always important to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which beverages may interact with your medications.
Try Out Different Mocktails
Mocktails have become increasingly popular and can be a fun way to make social events feel special. There are countless recipes online, and you can even turn it into an activity by hosting a mocktail-making night or asking guests to bring their favorite recipe to a gathering. This approach is also very inclusive of children and non-drinkers. As a reminder, some ingredients—such as grapefruit—can interfere with certain medications. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration explains this interaction clearly on its page about grapefruit juice and medication safety.
Finding ways to stay connected socially is an important part of overall well-being, similar to ideas we’ve shared in our post on staying engaged through meaningful activities, which highlights alternatives to traditional social routines.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. CareBuilders at Home provides non-medical home care services focused on supporting daily living and independence.
Choosing not to drink alcohol doesn’t have to feel restrictive—it can open the door to new routines and shared experiences with friends and family. Have you had to cut out alcohol? Let us know in the comments below.
Written by Brigid Stakelum
