In her late 70s, Becky, felt out of place during the Covid-19 crisis. She was finally coming to grips with her alcohol addiction. The problem was exacerbated by her use of prescribed medications – medications she needed to navigate aging.

“It started with a drink to help me sleep and turned into several drinks to get through the day and then eventually a bottle a day.”

“I no longer worked, lost my spouse, and had new aches and pains. Suddenly, I found myself drinking to cope,” she shared. “It wasn’t until I fell and hurt myself while drinking that I decided to use my savings for help at a women’s treatment center.”

Two Categories

Older women wrestling with addiction, are in two categories – early onset and late onset. Early onset is those who began drinking before 60 (usually in their teens). Those like Becky are considered late onset.

Late onset drinkers are likely to have been “teetotalers” before their golden years. Both types of drinking patterns have unique sets of problems and effects.

Substance Abused Is Overlooked in Older Women

Sadly, older women who struggle with substance abuse are overlooked and face barriers to age-appropriate treatment. Unlike other groups, women over 60 are not screened much by health care providers for substance abuse.

More often the effects that are present, like falling, memory loss, weight fluctuations, and more, are attributed to other things.

Not All Programs Are Appropriate

At 60-plus, we’re definitely not good candidates for some programs. A wilderness recovery program where one would rock climb, zip line, and engage in high adventure are less than ideal. If lucky, an older woman without private insurance might even find the right facility. Yet fewer and fewer effective programs are taking Medicaid and Medicare.

Older women who struggle with substance abuse may not believe anything is significantly wrong to warrant treatment interventions. They often just chalk it up to “old age.”

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends those over 65 consume no more than one drink per day or seven a week. However, if you’re drinking even a minimum amount and having problems, you’ll want to have a serious discussion with your doctor.

How to Identify Alcohol Addiction?

Start by self-identifying these common problems:

• Broken or increasingly brittle bones
• A tendency to neglect grooming
• Increased tolerance to alcohol or medications
• Recurring injuries or falls
• Incontinence
• Newer difficulties in making decisions
• Sleep problems and headaches
• Blood pressure that fluctuates all the time
• A constant feeling of social isolation or estrangement from loved ones
• Seizures with no known cause
• Trouble complying with medical advice or making it to appointments
• Stomach or gastrointestinal distress
• Frequent visits to the emergency room
• Changes in weight and/or appetite

These can be signs of other health issues, yet for those who drink regularly or a lot, they often have ties to alcohol use.

Alcohol Metabolism in Women Over 60

If you’re still not convinced cutting alcohol way back or all together is a good idea, consider the following:

As older people, we metabolize alcohol more slowly than our younger selves. That “woozy” effect we get from an evening cocktail or wine with dinner will last a lot longer.

The scientific reason is we lack higher levels of the enzyme called alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH). Women have half as much of this enzyme in our bodies than men to begin with.

ADH runs abundantly through our system when we’re young.

Why is this important? ADH is needed to break down alcohol – a toxin when in our system. According to Alexis Kuerbis, a social worker who specializes in alcohol use disorders at New York’s Hunter College, we start losing ADH significantly from our system at the age of 50.

As older adults, our bodies also have less water in them. When we drink, more of the alcohol stays in our blood as we just aren’t as hydrated as we used to be.

16 Tips of Alcohol Consumption

If you do choose to drink, you may want to take these actions:

#1 Limit yourself to one drink.

#2 Turn that glass of wine into a wine spritzer.

#3 Keep a drinking diary including what and how much you drank and where you were. Discuss it with your doctor or health professional.

#4 Always drink lots of water, soda, or juice after having an alcoholic beverage.

#5 List reasons to curtail your drinking – like sleeping better, feeling healthier, or improving relationships.

#6 Don’t drive – even after one drink. As older people, our reflex times are impaired even without alcohol in our blood.

#7 Don’t drink alone, and consider switching to no alcohol “mocktails” when socializing. They are popular and filled with nutrients, unlike alcohol.

#8 Try an AA meeting for support to stop drinking. You’ll find people of all ages and meetings that are gender or age specific.

#9 Discuss your real drinking habits with your doctor and find out which of your prescriptions prohibit you from drinking.

#10 Don’t keep alcohol in your home. Having no alcohol there can help limit drinking.

#11 Drink slowly, sip your drink, and never drink on an empty stomach.

#12 Pick alcohol-free days. Decide not to drink a day or two each week or maybe stop for a week or a month. See how you feel emotionally and physically without alcohol in your life. By taking a break from alcohol, you’re on your way to drinking less.

#13 Watch out for pressure from others. Practice ways to say no politely. You don’t have to drink just because others are.

#14 Don’t give up. Most people are successful after several attempts. You’ll probably have setbacks, but don’t let them keep you from reaching your long-term goal.

#15 Don’t replace alcohol with things like pot or other medication. Trading one health problem for another just isn’t success.

#16 Take a walk, play sports, get takeout at a venue not serving alcohol, or watch a movie – these activities are wonderful alternatives to drinking.

Perhaps you’re drinking a glass of wine at home alone while you’re reading this blog. Ask yourself if you need that glass of wine. The answer should almost always be “no” when you’re over 60. It’s just not worth it for so many reasons.

Have you ever suffered from alcohol abuse? What was it like? Why did you start drinking? How did you manage to cut back or stop? Please share your experience and let’s help each other.

Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day (the answer is yes, BTW)? Does this mole look okay? What’s the moisturizer for my skin type? Regardless of what questions you have for your dermatologist at your next appointment, chances are your derm has heard them all. What they don’t hear as frequently are the questions they wish you’d ask them. Whether you’re in their office for an annual skin checkup or a laser treatment, it turns out that dermatologists actually ~do~ want you to take advantage of their time. To help you get the most out of your appointments, we asked derms to share the questions their patients aren’t asking and wish they would. Scroll through what to keep in mind before your next visit.

Could my diet be affecting my skin?

“This is a good question because a lot of times we talk about topical treatments when inflammation or breakouts [can] arise from what we are putting in our bodies. Processed or artificial sugars, dehydration and nutrient deficiencies can play a major role in skin health. The body needs the proper vitamins and minerals to rid the skin of inflammation and waste. Without them, oil glands can go into overdrive, skin can be dry and flaky, and discoloration can appear. This question could answer many issues a patient may have where topical treatments are failing. A healthy body will better support healthy skin. The AAD has done copious studies to evaluate the role of diet and acne and has found that high glycemic index foods and dairy are the culprits that are correlated with acne. Additionally, as we age, there is a process that occurs where sugar chains attach to skin proteins (in a process called glycosylation). This can cause increased sallowing and wrinkling of the skin. So, lower glycemic index diets are best.”

—Dr. Dendy Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist at the Shafer Clinic in New York City

Am I at increased risk of skin cancer?

“This is a great question and is rarely asked to me. I think that people assume they know the answer to it, so they don’t ask. I will usually let a patient know this answer when doing a skin check because I think that it is very important and can change the frequency of recommended in-office dermatologic skin checks. Though every person can get skin cancer, those who are at increased risk include people with:

• Fair skin types, especially blue eyes or red hair
• 50 or more moles
• Family history of skin cancer, especially melanoma
• Personal history of skin cancer
• History of sunburn
• History of sun tanning bed use
• History of radiation therapy (usually for cancer treatment)
• Current medications or treatments that suppress the immune system
• A transplanted organ (kidney transplant, etc.)
• A history of breast cancer—personal or family

—Dr. Robyn Gmyrek, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Park View Laser Dermatology and Union Square Laser Dermatology

What is the best skincare routine for my skin?

“It may seem like a simple question, [but] I think it’s important that patients ask their dermatologist for guidance when it comes to skincare and what products to use at home! There are lot of misconceptions when it comes to skin and products and your dermatologist would be able to guide you in the right direction.”

—Dr. Orit Markowitz, New York City-based board-certified dermatologist

Image: ImaxTree.

How do I know if I’m ready for Botox?

“I usually say that if you’re asking about Botox, then it’s probably time to start. Whether you’ve started to see your mother staring back in the mirror or noticed that those expression lines linger a little longer than you’d like, Botox is a great option for prevention as well as correction. In addition to softening fine lines and wrinkles, Botox also stimulates collagen production, making it an ideal way to keep the skin taut and firm.”

—Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and Founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL. 

Cierra Miller/STYLECASTER.

What level SPF should I wear?

“This is a great question! SPF coverage is dependent on how sensitive the skin is and sun exposure. You need at least SPF 50 if you’re planning to be active outside. The AAD guidelines state that a minimum of SPF 30 is required. For everyday wear, I suggest 30 SPF on the face, at least. This is a great preventative question that can avoid more serious skin health questions down the line.”

—Dr. Engelman

What can I do to keep my skin healthy?

“Overall, many people do not see the forest for the trees. They look at one specific aspect of their skin only: jowls, smile lines, brown spots, redness, eczema or acne. I believe that you need to also address the overall health of the person in order to address the specific concerns. And if given an opportunity, with a receptive patient, I love to discuss the impact of the following on overall skin health and how it relates to their specific skin issues, such as acne or rosacea. For example, diet. Are you getting enough Vitamin C in your diet or through supplementation? Vitamin C is an essential co-factor for the production of collagen; without it you cannot make new collagen. Collagen supplements may be beneficial in stimulating collagen and improving hydration of the skin and elasticity. Then there’s stress. Find ways to manage your stress as it is very clear that stress will exacerbate skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea and acne. In addition, stress weakens your immune system and a weak immune system makes you more susceptible to infections and even cancer. Also, incorporate daily exercise. It strengthens your immune system, decreases stress and it increases blood flow to your skin, helping to remove toxins and deliver nutrients and antioxidants.”

—Dr. Gmyrek

Courtesy of ImaxTree.

What’s the best sunscreen for the time of year? 

“I find that most of my patients understand the importance of wearing sunscreen, but most people don’t realize that sunscreen isn’t one size fits all. There are so many sunscreens available on the market and while many people know it’s important to find a sunscreen that works best for your skin type, it’s also important to take into consideration your climate. I live in the northeast and the sunscreen I use in the winter is not the same one I use in the summer.”

—Dr. Markowitz

Are my current skincare products adequate to address my needs and complement my procedures?

“One of my favorite mantras is that good skincare doesn’t have to be time consuming or expensive. I find that many patients are using way too many products. Others are spending too much money on products that do the same thing or do nothing at all! I like helping patients to pare it down to the essentials and devise a plan that works in concert with in-office procedures that we’ve planned to achieve maximal results.”

—Dr. Hartman

Cierra Miller/STYLECASTER.

How can I monitor moles and markings at home?

“No one is immune to skin cancer. It is helpful for patients to monitor their moles for any changes since doctors can’t ask about what they don’t know. You should check your skin monthly and be alert to changes in the number, size, shape or color of spots on your skin or sores that do not heal. Pay special attention to moles—especially moles that have recently changed, bleed or itch. This can be life-changing if a worrisome mole is found early on. It could mean the difference in how invasive removal and treatment will be.”

—Dr. Engelman

The ’70s fashion hair accessory is back—with a modern update. If you often find yourself falling into a rabbit hole on Instagram watching wig videos, you’ve probably seen so-called headband wigs exploding all over your timeline. This type of unit, sometimes referred to as a headband half wig, is made with a piece of material at the wig’s base that mimics a headband.

Headband wigs offer an easy-to-wear option that requires nothing more than your natural hair being slicked back or braided down under. If you’re not a pro at applying wigs, headband wigs are a great option. Not only does it not require any combs, clips or glue, but it also tends to look more natural than lace wigs.

While headband wigs may have seemed to appear out of thin air, making it even harder to decide which type of wig is suited for your needs, it was, in fact, a response to lace production shortages during the beginning of the pandemic. Wig-wearers were having trouble finding quality lace wigs early during the pandemic. Plus, spending more time indoors is all the more reason to find lower maintenance alternatives to help you slay at home.

Headband wigs may have been a response to a temporary hiccup in the wig industry, but the ease of application has won over wig-wearers ranging from novice to expert. It’s safe to say that headband wigs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. In case you need some help venturing off into the wonderful world, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite wig units to guide you through the process.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Her Given Hair Coily Headband Wig

The company has created a few gorgeous textured headband wigs to channel your natural texture in a matter of minutes. If your wash-and-go typically requires a large chunk of time, having this headband wig at your disposal may come in handy.

UNice Body Wave Headband Human Hair Wig

The glam goddess in you deserves this full-bodied wig available in lengths from 12-28 inches.

Buy: Headband Human Hair Wig $89.20

RPG Show Brown Highlights Yaki Textured Headband Wig

This pink headband wig is just about the easiest way to get trendy highlights.

My First Wig Leo – Zodiac Collection Human Hair Ombre Curly

There’s no doubt in our minds that the Leo-themed headband wig will be a conversation starter, even if it’s just on your weekly Target run.

Clione Kinky Curly Headband Wig

Full is not even the word to describe the volume on this affordable synthetic kinky-curly afro wig. If you’re on the hunt for a statement wig, this is it.

Buy: Curly Headband Wig $25.89

Recifeya Hair Headband Wig

You may not be spending much time poolside or at the beach this year, but that doesn’t mean you wear this water wave textured headbang wig. We recommend keeping keep a spray bottle with water handy to keep this hair texture moisturized and defined.

Buy: Hair Headband Wig $69.99

Ali Pearl Headband Wig

Don’t sleep on short curly wigs. Compared to their longer counterparts, the ringlets are just as beautiful but much more manageable. This particular curly headband wig comes with three headbands and one scarf for you to switch up your look.

Buy: Headband Wig $75.48

Luvme Kinky Straight Headband Wig

If you have type 4 hair, kinky straight wigs are a must for your arsenal. The best thing about kinky straight textured wigs (besides the fact that they mimic straightened natural hair perfectly) is that they’re versatile. You can wear it in its natural kinky/crimped state, straighten it or even pump up the volume by adding curls.

Buy: Kinky Straight Headband Wig $199.90

K’ryssma Headband Wig

This affordable synthetic wig comes with multiple different headband prints so there are endless possibilities.

Buy: Headband Wig $27.77

As a woman over 60 interested in looking and feeling good, you’ve probably asked these questions at one point: Can I wear that? Will I look good in that? Am I too old to wear that? Do I have the right body type to wear that?

Designers are creating the same stylish trends for mature women as they do for the younger generation. The difference is that mature women have a more grown-up look and appeal. Therefore, the clothes are not as tight but still fitted to the body. The fabric is quality and provides more coverage.

The clothes may also be looser in the waist and hide particular flaws on a woman’s body that may not need to be hidden on a younger female.

Here are 5 stylish clothes you will love when you find the right look and fit for your body type.

Leggings

Recently, Women’s Wear Daily reported that leggings’ sales have officially outpaced denim sales online in the US. Leggings orders have increased by 41 percent in the last year – by comparison, denim orders rose three percent in the same time frame.

Why do you think this happened? It’s because leggings are so comfortable and versatile to wear. You can wear them in the winter or in cooler weather, and they give you good coverage for your legs.

I have suggested to my clients to wear leggings as a supportive element for the rest of their clothes, rather than the main garment. For instance, wear tunics and long blouses that fall below the waist. This will make you look long and lean. Add a long necklace, and you are good to go.

Leggings look good on all body types and depend on what style of tops and tunics you wear with them. The Ponte knit fabric is thicker and hides dimples in the thighs and, overall, provides nice coverage. Your long tunic or top covers your belly, and the leggings show off your fantastic legs. You will be able to hide any tummy flaws.

In the winter, any body type can wear leggings with boots or Uggs. In the spring and summer, wear sneakers or sandals. You will feel stylish and comfortable, along with looking great.

Capris or Crop Pants

Capris are cropped pants that stop above the ankle but usually well below the knee.

This trend is hard to wear, and you have to be very careful. Depending on your height, the capris’ length can be different on everyone. Once you find the length that works for you, you will be all set.

It’s unusual that this trend has been around for so long. Especially since they can be so unflattering for many women. Capris shorten the legs and also highlight chunky calves.

They are popular and so on-trend due to the following reasons:

• They can be sexy with revealing the ankle bone.
• They look great with booties, which are much on-trend.
• They also highlight another shoe trend: shoes with straps and lace-ups.
• They are associated with fun.
• They keep you cooler in the summer.

Here are some suggestions for successfully wearing capris and looking great at the same time:

• Choose capris with a higher waist if you have short legs. The high waist will draw the eye up and make your legs appear longer.
• Wear capris with a tapered or straight leg to create the longest and sleekest look.

The capris or crop pant is a comfortable summer option. Just make sure to create your own look to maintain a long leg and sleek silhouette.

Skinny Jeans

It’s not about age; it’s all about the fit when it comes to wearing skinny jeans. You just need to adjust the style to your changing body shape.

To get the correct fit, look at the waist rise, the upper leg, and the lower leg. Use this combination and you will get the perfect pair of jeans every time.

Things have changed since we started wearing jeans. The waist height, or rise as it is called now, used to have one height, but now there are many. The waist rise can now start from the navel to the low rise, below the waist, and almost at the hip area.

Skinny jeans do not make you look skinny but can make you look leaner depending on how you wear them. It also depends on how they are cut and fit your body type.

You can find specific designers who cater to the more mature women. For instance, Diane Gilman, a.k.a. The Jean Queen, makes jeans specifically for mature women.

I have tried her jeans, and they are an excellent fit. The jeans are not tight and concentrate on hiding flaws like the tummy area.

Cold Shoulder Tops

If you haven’t noticed, cold shoulder tops have been around for a few years now. The reason is that the cold shoulder shows the best focal point of the body. It is also easier to wear than the off-the-shoulder top.

This trend is for everyone and is versatile enough for both day and evening wear. Cold shoulder tops can be quite feminine. They have attractive sleeves, and the bonus is, they are very comfortable and cool when the weather is hot.

Wear these tops with almost anything, especially jeans, when the top is loose and flowing. All you need to do is find the right style and fit for you.

Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are not for everybody, but if you feel you can pull it off, then why not? The body fit makes all the difference. Making sure to look long and lean is the trick, and you will know if you have the right body type for it.

Choosing darker shades helps. Blacks and navys are chic and versatile, and they immediately slim down unwanted curves.

If you find you have tummy flaws, a jumpsuit that has material in the middle instead of being fitted is ideal.

You should also find a style that is somewhat tailored but not tight. Most of all, stay away from clingy fabrics. Sometimes they tend to rise up at the front and back if they are too tight, creating a “wedgie” effect – try on a few styles to find the most flattering fit for your figure.

The big thing about the jumpsuit trend is that you must feel really good and confident about yourself. If you are unsure about wearing it, then don’t. Your lack of confidence will show on your face and nonverbal communication.

If you aren’t wearing one of these pieces of clothing and you’ve always wanted to, try something new. Go to the store, try them on, and find out if they are for you. You might be surprised and love the new you!

How would you describe your style? Do you currently wear any of the clothing mentioned above? If so, how do you feel? Do you have more stylish clothes that you didn’t think you could wear, but look fantastic on you? What are they? Please join the conversation!

Most of us never dreamed we would still be as restricted as we are nearly one year after the pandemic made its appearance. But here we are…

Even if you are lucky enough to have avoided contracting Covid, physical, emotional, and economic challenges can take their toll.

Winter temperatures may have curtailed your outdoor exercise while indoor gyms have been closed. Separation from loved ones takes an emotional toll (thank goodness for Zoom and other pathways for connection). Job loss has resulted in financial hardship for many.

More than ever, we need to do our part in ending the contraction and spread of this virus so fewer people get sick and we are able to resume a normal life. The one thing we can all do? Get ourselves as healthy as possible through choosing the right food and supplements.

Choose the Right Food

Several years ago, I shifted the administrative part of my business to my home. What I discovered was that each time I took a break, I headed for the kitchen; not because I was hungry, but because it was a habit.

Have you noticed that you go to the kitchen for lack of anywhere else to go while confined? It’s easy when you are home for extended periods of time to get a little bored and reach for food.

People joke about their Covid stretch pants and shirts, but having extra weight, especially now, adds to your risk of being sicker if you get Covid. Obesity is directly linked with higher morbidity from this illness.

Dos and Don’ts of Eating Healthy

There are some dos and don’ts when it comes to food choices that support your health.

The dos are fresh simple whole foods like fruit, vegetables, nuts, beans, legumes, seeds, whole grains, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and high quality meat or seafood. An occasional glass of red wine is fine and generous portions of water and herbal teas should be your choice beverages.

The don’ts include sugar, white flour products, processed oils, and meats containing added hormones or antibiotics.

If you need a comprehensive list of foods that should be in your kitchen, try my Covid-19 cuisine list.

My book Food Becomes You provides invaluable tips, healthy meals and healthy snack examples, and nutritious recipes that will allow you to seamlessly incorporate healthy foods and easy meal preparations into your life. 

Which Supplements Are Worth Taking?

It’s wise to up your supplement intake when your food isn’t rich enough, but always start with a healthy diet first. Research on supplements to protect or aid in healing from Covid point to zinc, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D as especially important when you don’t get enough from your diet.

Zinc is present in many foods, but advisors recommend extra supplementation if exposed to the virus or you contract it.

Vitamin C is present in fruits and vegetables and an additional dose in the 500-1000mg daily may be of benefit. It is a water soluble vitamin, and any excess will flush out with your urine.

As for Vitamin D, I encourage you to read the research presented on the grassrootshealth.net site with regard to the lower ICU admissions and morbidity when D levels are adequate in the body.

People of color are generally at risk for low D levels because the higher level of melanin in their skin blocks absorption of D from the sun. In winter, it is especially difficult for anyone to absorb D from the sun. I take a liquid form as it’s most absorbable.

The 3 Action Steps

To summarize, here’s what we all can do:

#1 Stay a healthy weight and lose weight if you are obese.

#2 Eat nourishing foods and limit treats by not having them in the house.

#3 Take supplements as needed.

Which part of your home is your favorite to go to when you’re bored? Have you noticed any patterns with your state of mind and the frequency of your trips to the kitchen? What are some things you are doing to stay a healthy weight and get proper nourishment while you are confined? Join the conversation.

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor to get specific medical advice for your situation.