Can Retirement Homes in Michigan Really Serve Wine and Beer?

Having a glass of wine with dinner is a tradition that goes back nearly 8,000 years. Since the year 6000 BC, when humans still relied on stone and bone tools to survive, people have been making wine. Turning 21 is a major milestone here in the States as it's the age you're able to buy alcoholic beverages for the first time. 

Many grow accustomed to drinking for fun throughout their entire life, but when someone retires to a retirement center, they have to give up that small bit of luxury. Now, a senior center in St. Joesph is looking to return this age-old tradition to the ones living under its roof.

The Whitcomb in St. Joesph

Whitcomb Senior Living Tower recently filed an application to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission for a Class C liquor license, looking to give "seniors more amenities". Susan Veldman, director of marketing and community outreach for the Whitcomb, claims many of Whitcomb's residents were accustomed to having a glass of wine or beer before they lived at Whitmore.

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Getting this license will allow residents to purchase drinks at dinner and add another sense of normalcy to their lives. The city approved the license and now the Whitcomb is waiting on state approval.

Is it legal?

Yes, this is completely legal. The State of Michigan passed legislation in 2010 to allow continuing care retirement centers to apply for Class C liquor licenses like the one Whitmore applied for. Only 25 facilities in the entire state are allowed liquor licenses.

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There were concerns from critics of the bill about allowing seniors access to alcohol when considering the medications they are on and the boredom that can come with retirement leading to complications or over-consumption among the seniors. You can read the pros and cons of a dry vs wet facility here.