#54: Unveiling the Trend: Why More Seniors Are Turning to Cannabis

The golden years often come with a unique set of health challenges. Many seniors find themselves grappling with various conditions that require a bevy of prescription medications to manage their symptoms. This regime of drugs can sometimes feel never-ending and can have unpleasant side effects, leading many to seek alternative treatments.

An interesting trend has taken root in recent years - a growing interest in the usage of cannabis among seniors. This shift isn't random; it's a reflection of changing societal attitudes towards cannabis, backed by an increasing body of research that highlights its potential health benefits. Once stigmatized, cannabis is now seen in a new light, especially among seniors who are looking for more natural approaches to health management.

The reasons why seniors are gravitating toward cannabis are diverse. From managing chronic pain and improving sleep quality to reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being, the potential benefits of cannabis are drawing seniors in. To get a better understanding of this trend, let's take a closer look at some of the key reasons why more seniors are turning to cannabis.

 

A cultural turnaround: Seniors embrace cannabis in modern times

Historically, cannabis has been viewed through a lens of skepticism and stigma, particularly among older generations. During the 20th century, it was often associated with counterculture movements and criminal activity, leading to its prohibition in many parts of the world. This perception was further reinforced by government campaigns and propaganda that painted cannabis as a dangerous drug with no medicinal value.

The Silent Generation and Baby Boomers were raised during this era, and many were taught to fear cannabis and its potential effects. They grew up in a society that demonized cannabis, leading to a deep-rooted bias against it. However, as the years have passed, attitudes have shifted, and the taboo surrounding cannabis has begun to dissipate.

With the rise of medical and recreational cannabis legalization, research into the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis has become more feasible. This has helped to debunk many of the myths surrounding cannabis and has led to a growing acceptance of its medicinal properties.

As seniors have become more open to alternative forms of healthcare, they have started to explore the potential benefits of cannabis for themselves. This shift in attitude is reflected in the rising number of seniors who are turning to cannabis as a means of managing their health conditions.

In particular, seniors who have experienced unpleasant side effects from conventional medications are seeking out cannabis as a possible alternative. This, coupled with a growing movement towards natural and holistic living, has made cannabis a more appealing option for seniors seeking relief.

 

Natural relief: Seniors embrace cannabis for pain and more

The number of Americans aged 65 and older who reported using cannabis increased by 75% between 2015 and 2018. This surge can be attributed to various factors, including the growing number of countries and states legalizing medical cannabis and the increasing availability and variety of products.

Meanwhile, the University of Colorado conducted a study involving 274 participants, with an average age of 72.5 years. They found that cannabis use among seniors was associated with significant improvements in pain, sleep, and overall health. Additionally, seniors who used cannabis reported a reduction in the use of other medications, including opioids and benzodiazepines.

Pain management is a primary reason why seniors are turning to cannabis. With age comes an increased likelihood of chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, and back pain. Conventional medications for pain management often have unpleasant side effects and can be addictive, leading seniors to seek out alternative treatments.

John, a 73-year-old member of Herbal Dispatch, shares his personal journey with cannabis: "I've been dealing with arthritis for years, and the pain was becoming unbearable. Prescription medications offered little relief and came with side effects that made me feel worse. I finally decided to try cannabis, and it has been a game-changer for me."

One of the main reasons cannabis is gaining popularity among people like John is its versatility. Cannabis comes in various forms, such as oils, capsules, edibles, and topicals, making it accessible to seniors who may not want to smoke or vaporize it.

"The oils have been the most effective for me," John continues. "I add a dropper full to my tea in the morning, and it helps me manage my pain throughout the day. I also use a topical cream for my joints, and it works wonders for stiffness."

 

Silver linings: The benefits of cannabis for seniors

Seniors like John are not alone in their positive experiences with cannabis. Many studies have highlighted the potential benefits of cannabis for seniors, making it a viable option for managing various health conditions. Let's take a closer look at some of these benefits:

Pain management: Chronic pain is a reality for many seniors, and traditional pain medications can often be ineffective or come with harmful side effects. Cannabis has been found to be an effective alternative for managing chronic pain, offering relief without the risk of addiction.

Improved sleep: As we age, our sleep patterns tend to change, and getting a good night's rest can become challenging. Cannabis has been shown to promote better sleep quality, making it an appealing option for seniors struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.

Reduced anxiety and depression: Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seniors are not immune to conditions like anxiety and depression. CBD has been shown to have potential benefits for managing these conditions, offering seniors a natural and potentially safer alternative to traditional antidepressants.

Neuroprotection: Age-related cognitive decline is a major concern for many seniors. Studies have shown that certain compounds in cannabis may have neuroprotective properties, potentially helping to slow down the progression of conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

Inflammation relief: Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many age-related health conditions, and cannabis has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an appealing option for seniors looking to manage the symptoms of diseases like arthritis or multiple sclerosis.

Nancy, a 70-year-old Herbal Dispatch member, shares her experience with cannabis: "I have no interest in getting high, but I've found that CBD helps me manage my chronic pain and improves my mood. It's also a great sleep aid for me."

As more research unfolds, it's becoming clear that cannabis has a lot to offer for seniors looking to improve their health and well-being. Seniors like Nancy and John are just a few examples of how cannabis is changing the landscape of senior health care. As Nancy puts it, "Cannabis has really changed my life for the better, and I wish I had discovered it sooner."

 

From taboo to treatment: Cannabis' evolution in senior care

The unsung heroes in the rise of cannabis use among seniors are healthcare providers. As the gatekeepers to medication, their support and guidance play a crucial role in helping seniors make informed decisions about their health.

These professional advocates are increasingly open to the idea of cannabis as a viable treatment option for seniors. A survey of primary care physicians in Canada found that 82% had very good to excellent knowledge of medical cannabis and were willing to consider it as a treatment option for their patients.

As the trend rises, healthcare providers need to stay informed and educated about medical cannabis, its potential benefits, and the various forms it comes in. This knowledge will help them provide informed recommendations and monitor potential interactions with other medications.

Discussing cannabis use with healthcare providers is a win for all parties. Not only does it provide seniors with the guidance they need, but it also creates a more open and transparent healthcare system that considers all available treatment options.

 

A new era for senior health

The future of cannabis use among seniors appears bright, with an increasing number of seniors turning to cannabis as part of their healthcare routine. With more research and education, seniors will continue to discover the many potential benefits of cannabis

Really, it's no surprise that seniors are embracing cannabis. As a natural and versatile alternative to traditional medications, it offers a wealth of potential benefits for managing age-related health conditions. And with the stigma surrounding cannabis slowly fading away, seniors can finally feel comfortable exploring this option for themselves.

Nancy's experience with cannabis is a testament to its potential benefits for seniors. In her own words, "The pain that used to keep me from doing the things I love is now manageable. I feel more like myself again, and that's all thanks to cannabis."

No longer just a recreational drug, cannabis is proving to be a valuable tool in the senior healthcare toolkit, providing them with a natural and potentially safer way to improve their quality of life. With more seniors like John and Nancy sharing their experiences, it's clear that the future of cannabis use among seniors is a bright one.

 

Back to all posts