Why Some Seniors Are Choosing Pot Over Pills
Seniors in the U.S. are increasingly using cannabis to address issues like insomnia, pain, and anxiety, especially when prescription medications fail. The percentage of cannabis users aged 65 and older rose from 0.4% in 2007 to over 8% in 2022. While some, like Nancy Herring, use it recreationally and medicinally, others are exploring its benefits for the first time. Despite the lack of extensive research on cannabis’s effects on seniors, its popularity is growing, with companies and communities actively promoting its use. However, seniors are advised to approach cannabis cautiously, start with low doses, and consult healthcare providers due to potential risks and drug interactions.
National Institute of Health – Medical Cannabis for Older Patients—Treatment Protocol and Initial Results
Older adults may find relief from symptoms like chronic pain and sleep difficulties with cannabis treatment, especially when conventional therapies fail. However, there is limited evidence on its efficacy and safety for this age group. This article outlines a treatment protocol based on a study of patients aged 65 and older who began cannabis treatment from April 2017 to October 2018. After six months, 58.1% continued using cannabis, with 84.8% reporting some improvement in their condition. Adverse events were reported by 33.6%, mainly dizziness and fatigue. Due to potential risks related to polypharmacy and age-related changes, cannabis use in older adults requires careful, individualized consideration and regular monitoring.
Survey: More Than Ten Percent of Older Americans Have Consumed Cannabis Products in the Past Year
A survey published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research reveals that over 12 percent of adults aged 50 to 80 have used cannabis in the past year, with more than a third using it four or more days a week. Conducted by the University of Michigan, the survey included over 2,000 older adults. The findings align with rising cannabis use among seniors over the past decade. Paul Armentano of NORML noted that many older adults view cannabis as a viable alternative to prescription drugs for conditions like pain, anxiety, and sleep issues, due to fewer adverse side effects. Recent studies also indicate that cannabis use is linked to quality of life improvements in seniors.
The Neurotherapeutic Arsenal in Cannabis sativa: Insights into Anti-Neuroinflammatory and Neuroprotective Activity and Potential Entourage Effects
In cannabis science, cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are gaining recognition for their significant roles beyond the well-studied THC and CBD. Emerging evidence shows that these compounds interact synergistically, influencing the effects, benefits, and side effects of different cannabis strains. Terpenes, responsible for cannabis’s distinct flavors and aromas, also have pharmacological properties that modulate cannabinoid effects. Flavonoids, though less studied, show potential for anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits. Understanding these interactions is crucial for maximizing cannabis’s therapeutic potential. This paper emphasizes the need for focused research on the synergistic effects, phytochemical production, and comprehensive strain characterization, while also calling for regulatory changes to facilitate broader cannabis research.
National Institute of Health – Medical Cannabis for Older Patients—Treatment Protocol and Initial Results
Older adults may find relief from symptoms like chronic pain and sleep difficulties with cannabis treatment, especially when conventional therapies fail. However, there is limited evidence on its efficacy and safety for this age group. This article outlines a treatment protocol based on a study of patients aged 65 and older who began cannabis treatment from April 2017 to October 2018. After six months, 58.1% continued using cannabis, with 84.8% reporting some improvement in their condition. Adverse events were reported by 33.6%, mainly dizziness and fatigue. Due to potential risks related to polypharmacy and age-related changes, cannabis use in older adults requires careful, individualized consideration and regular monitoring.
NOT INTENDED AS MEDICAL ADVICE: Wellness recommendations only. Further research is warranted on the benefits of combining low doses of THC with other cannabinoids like CBD. While current studies indicate several therapeutic benefits such as neuroprotection, cardio protection, enhanced pain relief, and improved management of anxiety and mood disorders, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms, optimize dosages, and confirm long-term safety and efficacy.