Older Adults and Cannabis Use: Understanding Risks and Benefits

Recent research published in the *Journal of the American Medical Association* highlights a significant increase in cannabis use among older adults in the United States, prompting a call for the medical community to better understand the implications of this trend. The article, titled "Ensuring Older Adults Using Cannabis Are Not Left High and Dry," emphasizes the urgent need for clinicians to evaluate the benefits and risks associated with cannabis use in this demographic.

According to the report, older adults aged 65 years and older have become the fastest-growing group of cannabis users in the U.S. The percentage of this age group reportedly using cannabis rose from less than 1.0% in 2005 to 4.2% in 2018, with current usage further increasing to 7.0% by 2023, as reported by Han et al. (2023) in their analysis of data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The most notable increases were observed among older women and individuals with higher education and income levels, indicating a shift in societal attitudes toward cannabis use among seniors.

The rising interest in cannabis among older adults is often linked to chronic health conditions. Many are turning to cannabis to alleviate symptoms of insomnia, chronic pain, anxiety, and the psychological symptoms associated with dementia. However, despite the growing usage, there remains a lack of consistent therapeutic evidence supporting the efficacy of medical cannabis for older adults. Some studies suggest potential benefits, while others indicate limited effectiveness, creating a complex landscape that health care providers must navigate.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Geriatrics at Stanford University, emphasized the need for informed discussions about cannabis use among older adults. "Healthcare professionals should be aware that older adults are increasingly using cannabis products and must foster open, judgment-free conversations about its use," she stated in an interview on June 10, 2025. Additionally, the article points out the frustrations many older adults face when seeking guidance about cannabis, particularly regarding dosages and methods of consumption.

In Canada, the situation mirrors that of the United States, with limited data available on cannabis use among older Canadians since legalization in October 2018. A report from the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) published in October 2023 noted the absence of comprehensive data on cannabis use disorders and their treatment demands within this demographic. Health Canada has also acknowledged gaps in available information, particularly concerning the health impacts of cannabis on older citizens.

Furthermore, the 2022 Health Canada survey failed to provide explicit data on cannabis use among older adults, and a recent report suggested potential harms associated with cannabis use for individuals aged 55 and older. These findings highlight the necessity for more targeted research and data collection to understand the implications of cannabis use among older adults fully.

As the landscape of cannabis legalization continues to evolve, both the U.S. and Canadian medical communities face the critical challenge of addressing the needs of older adult cannabis users. Ensuring that healthcare providers are equipped with the knowledge and resources to assist this growing population will be vital in promoting safe and effective cannabis use practices. The implications of these findings are profound, affecting not only public health policy but also the way healthcare professionals engage with older patients about cannabis use moving forward.