A new JAMA study backed by federal funding reveals that cannabis use among Americans aged 65 and older has been growing steadily, especially as more states have legalized cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes.
Although older adults were already slowly increasing their cannabis consumption over the past two decades, new data show a sharper uptick in recent years. The research, based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, reports that monthly marijuana use in this age group has jumped from 4.8% in 2021 to 7% in 2023. Back in 2005, only 1% of older adults reported using marijuana in the past year, compared to 4.2% in 2018, marking a steady upward climb.
The uptick spans nearly every demographic category, but it was more pronounced in some groups. People identifying their race as “other,” white individuals, women, those with college or advanced degrees, higher earners, married individuals, and residents of states where medical cannabis is legal all reported higher usage rates. People dealing with several chronic health conditions also reported increased cannabis use in recent years.
The researchers point out changes in how older adults are using marijuana and who is using it. One interesting shift involves income levels. For instance, high-income earners, who once reported the lowest marijuana use, now top the list. The authors suggest this may be because these individuals can more easily afford medical marijuana, which can be costly.
The study notes that the growing use of marijuana among older people, especially in states with legal access, highlights a need for better education and guidance for both medical professionals and patients.
The report also mentions that older marijuana users often still consume tobacco or drink heavily, although there’s no strong evidence that marijuana use is causing an increase in those habits. It encourages medical professionals to routinely ask older patients about marijuana use and offer guidance on the risks, which may include negative effects such as heart and lung problems, digestive issues, stroke, cognitive decline, falls, and drug interactions.
Alongside the report, JAMA published an editorial note stressing that while marijuana might offer some medical benefits for older adults, the research so far has been mixed. Many studies show promise, but others report minimal effects. The risks are also real and shouldn’t be overlooked.
Ultimately, the findings emphasize a growing need for solid, reliable research on how cannabis affects seniors and for medical professionals to provide better guidance to avoid harmful outcomes.
The data on the increasing usage rates of marijuana by seniors opens opportunities for companies like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) to develop cannabis products tailored to the unique needs of this demographic so that they can leverage the benefits that come from serving this segment of the population.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
