I always joke that medical marijuana is wasted on the youth. Many young people have medical cards and consume cannabis who do not have the ailments that elders deal with every day. Senior citizens also grew up in an era when they were taught to fear cannabis and were never provided the education on how to use it properly, how to dose, what products are available, what the difference between Sativa and Indica are, let alone the joys of gardening and producing their own remedies.
At EzraHelps, I support recreational use of cannabis but my passion is bringing on new users who with a small amount of THC or CBD can transform their lives froim one dependent on multiple pills for multiple ailments and addressing side effects of those pills, to one where they have safe, reliable access to cannabis plant oils that have few side effects, and consistently provide symptom relief. A small dose of THC and CBN in my Night Oil for example, can help an elder replace dangerous and addictive sleep medications that leave them feeling demoralized and dependent.
Many elders fear that addiction is a factor in not wanting to try cannabis, but currently use opiates or benzodiazepines, both far more addictive and dangerous.
Despite fears and opinions based on stereotypes of the propaganda of discouraging THC and encouraging more dangerous medications, Cannabis has shown significant promise in addressing many common ailments that affect older adults, offering potential relief for chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, inflammation, and more. As elders age, they often face increasing health challenges and may rely on a variety of prescription medications, some of which come with undesirable side effects or risks of dependence. Cannabis, when used responsibly, can provide a natural and potentially safer alternative or complement to some medications, particularly opioids for pain and sedatives for sleep. Studies have shown that older adults who adopt cannabis for medical purposes typically experience minimal risk of addiction, as physiological dependence on cannabis is generally rare in this demographic, especially when compared to other substances like opioids or alcohol.
Data suggests that elder cannabis use is growing rapidly. For example, a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found a significant increase in cannabis use among adults aged 65 and older between 2006 and 2018. Much of this rise is attributed to elders seeking alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals. Conditions like arthritis, neuropathic pain, and sleep disturbances are common reasons for use, and cannabis’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it an appealing option. Additionally, there is growing evidence that cannabis may help with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease by potentially reducing agitation and improving sleep.
When introducing cannabis to an elder, relatives can play a vital role in creating a supportive, informed environment. It’s important to approach the topic with sensitivity, emphasizing how cannabis might address specific health concerns they already experience, such as reducing reliance on painkillers or improving sleep quality. Educating elders about modern cannabis products—such as low-dose tinctures, topicals, and edibles—can dispel outdated stereotypes of cannabis use and help them understand that it doesn’t need to involve smoking or intoxication. Recommending consultation with a healthcare provider knowledgeable about cannabis can also ensure safe, effective use and avoid potential interactions with existing medications.
Relatives might also emphasize that studies show elders rarely develop problematic patterns of cannabis use, especially when it’s used with clear therapeutic goals. This reassurance can help alleviate fears of addiction or stigma tied to cannabis. Ultimately, guiding elders toward balanced, evidence-based information and starting with low doses can empower them to make informed decisions about their health while minimizing risks.
