Cannabis: An Emerging Treatment for Common Symptoms in Older Adults

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Use of cannabis is increasing in a variety of populations in the United States; however, few investigations about how and for what reasons cannabis is used in older populations exist. DESIGN Anonymous survey. SETTING Geriatrics clinic. PARTICIPANTS A total of 568 adults 65 years and older. INTERVENTION Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS Survey assessing characteristics of cannabis use. RESULTS Approximately 15% (N = 83) of survey responders reported using cannabis within the past 3 years. Half (53%) reported using cannabis regularly on a daily or weekly basis, and reported using cannabidiol-only products (46%). The majority (78%) used cannabis for medical purposes only, with the most common targeted conditions/symptoms being pain/arthritis (73%), sleep disturbance (29%), anxiety (24%), and depression (17%). Just over three-quarters reported cannabis somewhat or extremely helpful in managing one of these conditions, with few adverse effects. Just over half obtained cannabis via a dispensary, and lotions (35%), tinctures (35%), and smoking (30%) were the most common administration forms. Most indicated family members (94%) knew about their cannabis use, about half reported their friends knew, and 41% reported their healthcare provider knowing. Sixty-one percent used cannabis for the first time as older adults (aged >= 61 years), and these users overall engaged in less risky use patterns (e.g., more likely to use for medical purposes, less likely to consume via smoking). CONCLUSION Most older adults in the sample initiated cannabis use after the age of 60 years and used it primarily for medical purposes to treat pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and/or depression. Cannabis use by older adults is likely to increase due to medical need, favorable legalization, and attitudes.

Automated summary

The study shows that approximately 15% of older adults have used cannabis in the past three years, with over half using it for medical purposes. Most older adults primarily use cannabis to treat conditions such as pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression.