Cannabis for Seniors

Medical marijuana’s therapeutic benefits are of particular interest to Americans 65 and older, aka cannabis for seniors. In fact, according to data from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health, 3.7% of U.S. adults age 65 or older used cannabis in the past year, which is more than a tenfold increase since 2007.

Continue reading to learn why so many seniors are seeking marijuana and their views on provider awareness and ability to access medical cannabis.

Why So Many Seniors Are Seeking Marijuana

You may be wondering why so many seniors are seeking marijuana these days. To start, the legalization of medical marijuana in 33 states and DC has encouraged more baby boomers to take advantage of cannabis’ therapeutic benefits. In fact, women and men aged 65 and older are increasingly turning to medical marijuana to treat and alleviate symptoms like chronic pain and conditions such as arthritis, anxiety, and depression.

How Can the Medical Community Assist in Cannabis for Seniors?

A study by researchers at the University of Colorado School of Medicine examined pot use among Americans over age 60 and surveyed 136 people over 60 at various senior centers, health clinics, and cannabis dispensaries.

While they sought to uncover why so many seniors are seeking marijuana, researchers also found that many study participants had trouble gaining access to medical marijuana. Respondents reported that their physicians lacked sufficient education on the therapeutic uses of marijuana, including the dosing and methods of consumption.

What’s more, some seniors who were unable to obtain a medical marijuana recommendation and medical marijuana card from their primary physician, turned to purchasing pot from recreational dispensaries in Colorado at a higher cost.

Participants also revealed that they would like their healthcare providers to be more open to learning about medical cannabis and providing it as a viable treatment alternative to the many seniors seeking marijuana.

Learn More About Cannabis for Seniors

If you would like to learn more about why so many seniors are seeking marijuana and what discounts we offer said seniors, please contact Dispensary Works today.