Cannabis Use Among Older Veterans: Rising Trends and Emerging Concerns

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals that over 10% of U.S. veterans aged 65 to 84 have used cannabis in the past month, with more than a third of these users meeting the criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD) . This trend underscores the growing prevalence of cannabis use among older veterans, primarily for medical reasons such as pain management and sleep disorders.

Key Findings
Prevalence of Use: Among the 4,503 veterans surveyed, 14.1% reported using cannabis in the previous year, with 12% indicating monthly use.

Reasons for Use: The primary motivations for cannabis use included pain relief (56.4%) and addressing sleep issues (16%).

Methods of Consumption: Smoking was the most common method, followed by edibles, which were more frequently used by women.

Age Variations: Veterans aged 65 to 75 were more likely to use cannabis than those older than 75.

Cannabis Use Disorder: Notably, 36.3% of those who used cannabis in the last month met the criteria for CUD, with higher rates among those who inhaled cannabis compared to those who consumed edibles.

Broader Implications
The increasing use of cannabis among older veterans raises several concerns:

Mental Health Risks: Veterans with psychiatric disorders, especially those with bipolar and psychotic-spectrum disorders, are particularly vulnerable to developing CUD .

Cognitive Health: Studies have linked heavy cannabis use to memory problems and an increased risk of dementia in older adults .

Cardiovascular Concerns: Daily cannabis use has been associated with a 34% higher risk of developing heart failure, regardless of age, sex, or smoking history .

Recommendations
Given these findings, there is a pressing need for:

Routine Screening: Healthcare providers should regularly screen older veterans for cannabis use and potential CUD.

Education: Veterans should be informed about the potential risks associated with cannabis use, especially concerning mental and cardiovascular health.

Treatment Options: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers evidence-based treatments for CUD, including cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy .

Conclusion
As cannabis becomes more accessible and its use among older veterans increases, it’s crucial to balance its potential therapeutic benefits with the associated health risks. Ongoing research, education, and tailored healthcare interventions are essential to address this emerging public health concern.

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