Asked to comment, Cedar Crest’s medical director, Dr. Roland Lascari, stated: “There are reports of the benefits of 3 ounces of alcohol daily as a cardio protective agent. This also depends on the general health status of the individual and whether there are any other risk factors that may be detrimental the patient, such as diabetes, liver, and kidney disease.”
Among those who turn out for Cedar Crest’s social hours, few are surprised by the study. “It seems to be common knowledge now that a drink a day is actually good for you,” says Ed.
But the report drew a wisecrack from one woman who wished only to go by her first name Mary: “We’ve been doing this for years, and we’re only finding out now it’s okay?”
The Social Benefit
For all, however, it’s really about the people. “The purpose originally was for people to get to know each other,” says Marie. “That’s why we call it a social hour rather than a cocktail hour. Many people come and don’t drink.”
The social hours also give people a chance to touch base with each other regarding other goings-on. At last count, Cedar Crest had over 135 groups, clubs, and activities.
And therein lies another, potentially bigger health benefit. On My Health, a website of Catholic Healthcare West, the nation’s eighth largest hospital system, Carol Ryff, Ph.D., director of the Institute of Aging at the University of Wisconsin– Madison, is quoted as saying:
“Our research, and that of others. . . shows that seniors who are ‘socially integrated’—in other words, connected to others in an active, positive way—are in better health, retain more of the mental sharpness, and in general live longer than those who become ‘social recluses.’” Cheers!
When you come to the social hour at the Town Square or Belmont Clubhouse and wish to have a cocktail, you can do one of two things:
You can BYOB (bring your own bottle). Or, as most people do, you can buy your glass of wine, beer, or mixed drink at the bar. In the Town Square it’s tended by Ed Conticchio, and in the Belmont you’ll find a whole team behind the bar: Don and Pauline Sharon, Marie and Bill Sprankel, and publicity-shy Mary.
All are volunteers who not only pour and mix your drink, but purchase the stock of beverages and set up every week. No one makes any money. “I charge $2 a drink, says Ed. “I give two shots and make all kinds of fancy drinks. I do get some extra money, and with that I have hors d’oeuvres every other week for the people who buy drinks.”
Drinks are a little more at the Belmont—$3 each—but all profits are donated. “We give to our student Scholars Fund, our Staff Appreciation Fund, and the Benevolent Care Fund,” says Marie. “And right now, we’re saving money to put in a nice donation for the stained glass window in our new interfaith chapel!”