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| source : usnews.com |
It’s official: more older adults are using cannabis than ever before. And as someone who’s been keeping an eye on the shifting tides of health, aging, and wellness, I get the appeal. Sleep problems, chronic pain, anxiety, these are common issues in later life, and cannabis can seem like a natural fix.
But before you pass the edibles at your next bridge game, there are some things you should know. Because even though weed is more accessible and socially accepted than ever, that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free, especially for the 65+ crowd.
The Rise of Senior Cannabis Use
A recent study from UC San Diego and NYU, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, found that cannabis use among adults aged 65+ jumped by a whopping 46% between 2021 and 2023.
To put that in perspective:
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In 2021, only 4.8% of seniors said they’d used cannabis in the past month.
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By 2023, that number had risen to 7%.
That might not sound huge at first, but considering we’re talking about millions of Americans over 65, it’s a big cultural shift.
So why the uptick?
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Legalization: More states are approving cannabis for both medical and recreational use.
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Reduced stigma: Weed isn’t just for college dorms anymore.
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Boomer familiarity: Many users today were part of the “flower power” generation. They’re just circling back to an old friend.
Who’s Using It, and Why
Interestingly, the study found that women were using cannabis at slightly higher rates than men. Also, usage was more common among:
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People with chronic health conditions (like hypertension, diabetes, or COPD)
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Higher-income individuals ($75k+ annually)
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Those with college degrees
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People living in states where medical cannabis is legal
Most older adults report using cannabis to:
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Sleep better
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Manage chronic pain
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Deal with anxiety or depression
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Relax and unwind
And honestly, who doesn’t want that? But…
The Risks You Can’t Ignore
Here’s where things get a bit more serious. Doctors and researchers are raising red flags, especially when it comes to interactions with other medications or pre-existing health issues.
Dr. Barbara Krantz, a respected addiction medicine specialist, warns that cannabis in seniors may increase risks of:
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Heart attack or stroke
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Worsening COPD
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High blood pressure
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Balance issues (hello, falls!)
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Delayed reaction times
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Mental fog, confusion, or even psychiatric effects like paranoia or anger
Plus, there’s the issue of edibles, which have become a go-to option for older users. They may seem harmless, but they’re actually tricky to dose. One too many gummies and you’re not just “relaxed” you’re calling the ER with a racing heart or a panic attack.
“Natural” Doesn’t Always Mean Safe
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst at Fox News, didn’t mince words when he said:
“You might use a gummy to go to bed, and then the next thing, you're using three. It could increase anxiety, it can increase discombobulation. We’ve jumped the gun on legalization.”
And while that might sound a bit dramatic, the data backs him up. ER visits for cannabis-related complications are on the rise among older adults. And there’s concern that long-term use might worsen dementia symptoms or other cognitive conditions.
So, What Should You Do?
I’m not here to tell you never to touch cannabis. But if you’re considering it, or already using it, talk to your doctor first. Seriously. And not just your doctor, but your pharmacist, too. They can help flag potential interactions with your medications.
Here are a few smart steps to take:
1. Know your why
Pain relief? Sleep? Anxiety? Your reason will help determine the right form and dosage.
2. Start low and go slow
Especially with edibles. Your body metabolizes THC differently than when it’s smoked or vaped.
3. Stay mindful of changes
If you feel more anxious, more dizzy, more confused, it’s not helping. It’s hurting.
4. Combine it with lifestyle changes
Cannabis might be a short-term aid, but real long-term relief often comes from pairing it with exercise, diet, therapy, or physical rehab.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis can be a tool, but like any tool, it has to be used wisely.
Yes, more seniors are turning to it for relief, and that’s OK. But let’s not pretend it’s a magic bullet or a risk-free supplement. Talk to professionals. Monitor your health. And remember: your well-being isn’t about trends, it’s about what actually works for you.