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Why might older adults with an alcohol use disorder not experience tolerance and/or physical dependence?

While alcoholism is often associated with increasing tolerance and dependence, up to 14% of older adults misuse alcohol, and many may not display these classic signs. This is because age-related physiological changes mean that even smaller amounts of alcohol can cause significant impairment, so older adults with an alcohol use disorder may not experience the typical hallmarks of tolerance and/or physical dependence.