While cannabis has historically been more popular among younger groups, more and more older adults are turning to it for a variety of reasons. But are the potential benefits worth the risks?
In a recent National Poll on Healthy Aging from the University of Michigan, approximately 21% of people age 50 and older said they had taken a poll on healthy aging. forms of cannabis Contains the psychoactive compound THC at least once in the past year, with 12% using it monthly.
Dr. Barbara Krantz, medical director of geriatric programs, withdrawal management and chronic pain at Caron Treatment Center in Florida, said her practice has seen a “significant increase” in cannabis use among people over 50.
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“In Caron's patient population, almost all of the patients in the seniors program admitted to having tried cannabis in some form,” she told Fox News Digital. “So that's a common occurrence.”
According to a recent National Poll on Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan, about 21% of people over 50 said they had used marijuana in the past year, and 12% said they used it monthly. . (St. Petersburg)
Why older adults are turning to cannabis
The main reasons seniors use cannabis are to improve sleep (68%), relieve pain (63%), reduce mental health issues (53%), and to relax or feel better (81%). %). To the polls in Michigan.
12% of adults over 50 use cannabis monthly.
“Most of the older adults we see report using cannabis products to manage issues such as sleep, pain, anxiety, depression, or medical issues they are struggling with.” said Krantz.
Current older adults are also the generation that grew up in the 60's and 70's, which means many of them have experienced marijuana use in their early lives and may be more open to marijuana use. she pointed out.
10 risks cannabis poses to seniors
While many older adults may think they know the effects of marijuana, a false sense of security can be dangerous, Krantz warned.
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“It turns out that the marijuana and cannabis that they remember is very different from what's available today,” she says.
“Today's marijuana is more potent, and their bodies are less able to process marijuana.”
Recreational use of marijuana is legal in some states, including California, Oregon, and Colorado. “This means seniors can purchase cannabis at a pharmacy if they wish without the need for a prescription,” the legal expert said. (St. Petersburg)
Mr. Krantz outlined 10 potential dangers associated with cannabis use by older adults:
- Increased risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, increased high blood pressure, and tachycardia
- Interactions with other drugs may increase toxicity or decrease efficacy.
- Worsening chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Poisoning due to accidental ingestion
- Balance problems can lead to falls and fractures
- Delayed reaction time impedes driving and causes accidents.
- Increased confusion or cognitive impairment
- mental illness
- Increased anxiety, depression, or anger
- Surgery-related risks such as anesthesia complications and delayed healing
“Most of the older adults we see report using cannabis products to manage issues such as sleep, pain, anxiety, depression, or medical issues they are struggling with.” said a cannabis expert. (St. Petersburg)
“Seniors should consult their health care provider or pharmacist before using marijuana or cannabis products, as there are very real and specific risks to them when using these substances.” said Krantz.
Interactions with other medications are especially dangerous, cautions Shari B. Kaplan, a licensed clinical social worker and botanical prescriber at Cannectd Wellness in Boca Raton, Florida.
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“Caution should be used when using cannabis with certain medications,” she told FOX News Digital.
“Blood thinners and blood pressure medications are two types of medications that need to be carefully managed in close collaboration with a medical cannabis physician.”
A poll found that one common reason seniors use cannabis is for pain relief. (St. Petersburg)
Kaplan warned that older patients may also face risks if they consume too much cannabis for sleep.
“If older patients take high doses of THC in the evening to help them sleep, they need to be careful about the balance if they get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom,” she says.
“Educating patients to take their time when sitting in bed and to stand slowly and with support is important to prevent falls.”
Legality of cannabis use
Laws regarding marijuana use vary by state, said Russell Morgan, principal at Morgan Legal Group in New York City.
Recreational use of marijuana is legal in some states, including California, Oregon, and Colorado.
Interactions with other drugs can be particularly dangerous, experts warn. (St. Petersburg)
“This means seniors can purchase cannabis at a dispensary if they want without needing a prescription,” Morgan told FOX News Digital.
“As with the purchase of alcohol, you will only be asked to show ID to prove your age.”
Most other states allow cannabis for medical purposes.
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“Seniors who suffer from chronic pain, arthritis or other qualifying conditions can get a doctor's recommendation or a medical marijuana card,” Morgan said.
Marijuana use remains illegal in a few states, including South Carolina and Nebraska, the lawyers noted.
“The truth is, we don't know the best delivery method, device, or dosage that might be medically effective for a particular condition, because what's currently available in pharmacies hasn't gone through clinical trials. ,” the doctor said. (St. Petersburg)
“It is important to note that at the federal level, cannabis is classified as a Schedule I substance and is considered illegal,” he added.
Krantz pointed out that medical marijuana cards are not actually prescriptions because marijuana and cannabis products are not FDA approved.
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“The truth is, we don't know the best delivery method, device, or dosage that might be medically effective for a particular condition, because what's currently available in pharmacies hasn't gone through clinical trials. ,” she said.
What seniors should know before consuming cannabis
No matter your age, experts agree that it's important to talk to your health care provider about cannabis use, just like you would about any other supplement.
Dr. Robin Fowler, founder of Botanical Science, a medical cannabis provider in Georgia, recommends that older adults, especially those new to cannabis, start with a low dose and increase gradually.
No matter your age, experts agree that it's important to talk to your health care provider about cannabis use, just like you would about any other supplement. (St. Petersburg)
“Understanding the differences between some of the key cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, is essential to ensure they achieve the desired effects without discomfort,” he told FOX News Digital.
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“Education is key. Knowing the appropriate strain, method of administration, and dosage is essential for safe and effective use,” the expert continued.
“For seniors, it is also essential to source cannabis products from licensed and reputable dispensaries to ensure product quality and safety.”
