Silver Sobriety

02/15/2026

Retirement, lifestyle changes, and major life transitions can shift daily structure — and sometimes increase alcohol use without us realizing it.

Recovery for older adults often includes redefining identity, rebuilding routine, and finding renewed purpose in a new season of life. Choosing sobriety later in life creates space for clarity, stability, and long-term well-being.

Silver Sobriety offers a 12-Step recovery approach designed specifically for older adults navigating sobriety in this stage of life. If you are exploring an alcohol-free future and looking for structured support, we invite you to learn more about model at www.silversobriety.org/our-program

02/13/2026

“Drinking is a ‘social lubricant.’ That’s not always a good thing.”

Alcohol is often normalized as the shortcut to connection — a way to ease anxiety, soften edges, and make social settings feel more comfortable. But when something becomes the default tool for belonging, confidence, or celebration, it’s worth asking deeper questions.

What does it mean when the connection feels contingent on consumption? And who might be left out — or silently struggling — because of that expectation?

This article challenges the cultural narrative around alcohol and invites a more intentional look at how we define fun, community, and confidence.
👉 Read “Drinking is a ‘Social Lubricant.’ That’s Not Always A Good Thing” and join the conversation.

02/05/2026

Sobriety later in life is about more than stopping alcohol use — it’s about supporting emotional health, mental clarity, and overall well-being as we age.

Many older adults developed long-standing drinking habits during a time when alcohol was socially normalized and rarely questioned. Choosing recovery later in life can improve daily stability, reduce stress, and support healthier aging.

Silver Sobriety exists to provide support for older adults who are choosing an alcohol-free life and looking for resources, understanding, and community in this next chapter.

01/26/2026

NEW UPDATES TO STANDARDS OF ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION — check it out: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Wellness/video/new-us-dietary-guidelines-include-alcohol-guidance-129011692

The newly released U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans take a fresh approach to alcohol guidance, moving away from specific drink limits and instead encouraging people to limit alcoholic beverages for better overall health. The update also removes separate guidelines for men and women and reinforces the importance of balanced, nutrient-rich eating patterns.

This shift has sparked meaningful conversation among health professionals and advocacy groups about how we talk about alcohol, health risks, and informed choice. What do you think of this change? Does broader guidance feel more helpful—or more confusing?

The new guidelines, which are updated every five years, provide language on alcohol moderation rather than specific drink limits, as have been included in the past.

01/23/2026

We are pleased to welcome Steve Stadler, MA, LPCC, LADC, LCAS, as the newest member of the counseling team. Steve brings a strong background in supporting individuals and families through recovery, relationship challenges, grief, and addiction. With dual licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor, and certification as a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Steve has dedicated his work to helping clients uncover barriers, build resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives. We are excited to have his expertise and compassionate approach on board!

https://www.silversobriety.org/about-us

01/22/2026

staff members, Stephanie and Steve, ran into John Curtiss, CEO and President of The Retreat - Alive with the Spirit of Recovery, at the Minnesota Wild Recovery Night. The Retreat was a sponsor and co-organizer of this well-orchestrated evening filled with hockey, fellowship, and celebration. We are grateful for their leadership, organization, and the important work they continue to do in the recovery community!

01/21/2026

Post acute withdrawal syndrome can make recovery feel unpredictable, with changes in mood, sleep and stress. Read about PAWS symptoms and learn how Hazelden Betty Ford helps strengthen recovery. Read now: https://bit.ly/4jmgzmY

01/20/2026

Today was spent in reflection of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.—a leader who reminded us that change begins with compassion, courage, and community.

At Silver Sobriety, we believe in creating spaces rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity for all. Dr. King’s vision challenges us to continue building communities where people are supported, empowered, and welcomed as their full selves—especially on journeys of healing and recovery.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

May we answer that call today and every day.

01/12/2026

The takeaway: Drinking alcohol becomes riskier as we age — even amounts that once felt harmless can have stronger effects and greater consequences.

Why it matters:
🚨 As the body ages, alcohol’s effects (like sedation, impaired balance or coordination, and slower reaction times) become more pronounced, increasing risks of falls, injuries, and accidents.
🚨 Chronic health conditions common in older adults (heart disease, pain, inflammation, cognitive changes) can be worsened by alcohol use.
🚨 Mixing alcohol with medications — which is common among older adults — can cause dangerous interactions, reduce medication effectiveness, or amplify side effects.

Here are 4 simple steps you (or a loved one) can try this week:
💡 Consider swapping one or more drinks with water, herbal tea, or a non-alcoholic alternative — especially if you’re on medications or managing a chronic condition.
💡 Keep a “drink-log” for a week: track when you drink and how much. It can help you notice if patterns have shifted over time.
💡 If you do drink, check in with a doctor or pharmacist to review any medications that might interact with alcohol.
💡 Reflect: after a night that includes alcohol — how did you sleep? How was your balance or mood the next day? Use those observations to guide future choices.

Check out NIAAA’s “Rethinking Drinking” resources (https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/about-niaaa/directors-page/niaaa-directors-blog/growing-concern-increased-drinking-among-older-adults) or talk with your healthcare provider. If this feels relevant to you — or someone you care about — Silver Sobriety is here to walk alongside you.

01/12/2026

Looking to make a meaningful impact? Silver Sobriety is seeking volunteers who want to use their skills to strengthen recovery-focused community support.

Current opportunities include accounting support (2–4 hours per month using QuickBooks), a Board Treasurer role for those with finance or accounting experience, fellowship and outreach support at local events, and short-term phone outreach to help build referral connections.

Whether you’re seeking a leadership role or a flexible way to give back, your time and talents can make a real difference. Get involved, uplift others, and help us continue building connection, stability, and hope within our community.

Learn more and sign up here: https://www.silversobriety.org/get-involved

01/09/2026

Silver Sobriety is welcoming new Board Members!

We are a -based nonprofit dedicated to providing affordable, accessible recovery support for older adults. We are seeking thoughtful, mission-driven individuals to join our Board of Directors and help expand and strengthen recovery resources for seniors in our community.

Board member responsibilities include:
💡 Participation in monthly meetings (approximately two hours)
💡 Providing strategic guidance and governance
💡 A shared commitment to our mission: rebuilding lives, one step at a time
💡 Experience in finance, healthcare, aging services, fundraising, or organizational leadership is valued, but not required.

To learn more about Silver Sobriety and the impact of our work, visit silversobriety.org.

Interested in learning more or starting a conversation?
Please send us a direct message or email info@silversobriety.org