A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine revealed a 46% increase in cannabis use among adults aged 65 and older between 2021 and 2023. In 2023, 7% of seniors reported using cannabis in the past month, up from 4.8% in 2021. The rise is attributed to factors like the legalization of cannabis in many states and changing societal attitudes.
The University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 21% of adults over 50 used cannabis in the past year, with 12% using it at least monthly. Common reasons include relaxation, sleep aid, pain relief, and enhancing mental health.
However, medical professionals express concerns about the health implications. Cannabis can interact with medications, exacerbate chronic conditions, and increase risks of falls, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular issues. A study from the University of California San Diego noted a significant rise in cannabis-related emergency department visits among seniors, from 366 in 2005 to over 12,000 in 2019.
Experts emphasize the importance of healthcare providers discussing cannabis use with older patients to ensure safe consumption and monitor potential side effects. As cannabis becomes more accessible, understanding its impact on the aging population remains crucial.
Dabbin-Dad Newsroom
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