Recent trends indicate that over 50 million Americans have used cannabis in the past year, and alarmingly, the demographic that’s increasingly adopting this habit includes older adults, particularly those who might not be in the best health to do so—yes, that means our grandparents.
A study from JAMA Internal Medicine reports a nearly 50% surge in cannabis use among seniors aged 65 and older from 2021 to 2023, accounting for 7% of total users in this age group.
There seems to be a common belief that marijuana is somehow safer than alcohol or tobacco. However, research from the University of California, San Francisco challenges this notion, showing that THC, the active compound in marijuana, damages the blood vessel lining much like cigarette smoke does. This can lead to serious health issues such as hypertension and increased risks of heart attacks and strokes.
Furthermore, the combination of alcohol and marijuana poses additional risks, particularly for older drivers who may already be less capable behind the wheel. In fact, fatal accidents involving both substances have more than doubled in the U.S. over the past two decades.
Another misconception is that cannabis is a safe remedy for insomnia or anxiety. Yet, regular cannabis use can adversely affect cognitive abilities, particularly concerning learning and memory—issues already prevalent among seniors. Not to mention, high THC levels can exacerbate anxiety and trigger mental health problems.
Many people also mistakenly believe that the potency of cannabis has remained stable over the years, but today’s products can contain THC levels of 30-50%, which is much higher than what was common in previous decades. This current generation of cannabis is quite different, and older adults may metabolize its effects more slowly, leading to more pronounced psychological impacts over time.
What’s particularly concerning is the widespread assumption that cannabis is a valid medical treatment for chronic pain or sleep disorders. However, evidence supporting its efficacy is lacking, and even its medical use carries risks that may not outweigh the benefits. The push for broader legalization has led to increased recreational use, now fully legal in 24 states, compounding the problem.
Among seniors striving to maintain their quality of life, the last thing they need is the added risk of addiction or suboptimal functioning due to substance use. Regular cannabis consumption can lead to cannabis use disorder and create a dependency, making it difficult to quit without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. If seniors find themselves drawn to THC-laden products for sleep, they might inadvertently heighten their anxiety or even spiral into mental health issues. Perhaps it’s best not to let their cannabis dealer be the one advising them.
