Clinical Report: Elderly Individuals Are Turning to Cannabis

Overview

The increasing use of cannabis among elderly individuals raises concerns about safe usage and potential adverse effects.

Background

As cannabis becomes more widely accepted and legalized, its use among older adults is rising significantly. This demographic often seeks cannabis for relief from chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia, which can reduce reliance on traditional medications. However, the potency of modern cannabis products poses unique challenges for elderly patients, who may be more susceptible to adverse effects.

Data Highlights

In New York state, 25.8% of medical cannabis patients are aged 65 or older, and 34.5% are aged 50-64. A survey indicated that fewer than 1 in 5 older adults discussed cannabis use with a clinician.

Key Findings

• Senior patients are increasingly using cannabis for chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
• Modern cannabis products are approximately 10 times stronger than those available 50 years ago.
• Overconsumption of cannabis can lead to discomfort but is not lethal.
• Education for healthcare providers on cannabis use is essential for patient safety.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should engage in discussions about cannabis use with older patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with high-THC products.

Conclusion

As cannabis use among elderly individuals grows, it is imperative for healthcare professionals to understand the potential risks.

Related Resources & Content

1. conexiant, The Cannabis Talk That Doesn't Happen, 2023 -- Article
2. JAMA Network Open, Edible Cannabis and Pain, Sleep, and Mental Health Management in Older Adults, 2023 -- Article
3. The ASCO Post, Expect Questions About Medical Marijuana, 2016 -- Article
4. ACP Online, ACP’s Best Practice Advice Addresses Use of Cannabis, Cannabinoids for Chronic Noncancer Pain, 2025 -- Article
5. NICE, Overview | Cannabis-based medicinal products, 2025 -- Guidance
6. CDC, Cannabis Frequently Asked Questions, 2025 -- FAQ
7. The ASCO Post — ASCO Issues New Guidance on Cannabis and Cannabinoid Use in Adults With Cancer
8. ACP’s Best Practice Advice Addresses Use of Cannabis, Cannabinoids for Chronic Noncancer Pain | ACP Online
9. Overview | Cannabis-based medicinal products | Guidance | NICE
10. Cannabis Frequently Asked Questions | Cannabis and Public Health | CDC
11. Living Systematic Review on Cannabis and Other Plant-Based Treatments for Chronic Pain: 2025 Update - NCBI Bookshelf
12. Adverse events caused by cannabinoids in middle aged and older adults for all indications: a meta-analysis of incidence rate difference - PubMed
13. Trends in Past-Month Cannabis Use Among Older Adults | Cannabis | JAMA Internal Medicine | JAMA Network
14. (PDF) Edible Cannabis Legalization and Cannabis Poisonings in Older Adults
15. Risk of Dementia in Individuals With Emergency Department Visits or Hospitalizations Due to Cannabis | Substance Use and Addiction Medicine | JAMA Neurology | JAMA Network