Cannabis Use in Seniors: Trends & Insights
Older adults are increasingly turning to cannabis, with usage considerably rising from 2021 to 2023, according to a new study featured in JAMA Internal Medicine. This surge is linked to factors such as income levels, education, marital status, and the legal status of cannabis, painting a complex picture of evolving habits. Researchers highlight the need for more research and education to address this trend. The study also reveals that conditions such as chronic diseases are frequently enough found in cannabis users. News Directory 3 reports that women, individuals with higher incomes, and those in states with legalized medical cannabis are more likely to be using cannabis.Experts emphasize the critical gap between cannabis use and the understanding of its effects.What will be the impacts be on this demographic? Discover what’s next.
Cannabis Use Among Older Adults Shows Significant Increase
Updated June 04,2025
A recent study reveals a notable increase in cannabis use among older adults,raising concerns and highlighting the need for greater awareness and research. The findings, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, indicate a significant jump in past-month cannabis use from 4.8% in 2021 to 7.0% in 2023.
Researchers, led by Dr. Benjamin H. Han at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, focusing on adults aged 65 and older. The study underscores a growing trend of cannabis use in older populations.
The study identified several factors associated with increased cannabis use.Women showed a higher odds ratio (OR) of 1.32, while men had an OR of 1.18. Additionally, older adults with higher incomes (at least $75,000 annually), those with college degrees, married individuals, and residents of states with legalized medical cannabis also demonstrated increased use.
Of the racial groups surveyed, individuals identifying as “other” showed the highest increase in cannabis use, with an OR of 2.26.
While increased cannabis use correlated with several medical conditions, researchers noted the difficulty in distinguishing between recreational and medical use. Chronic diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart conditions, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer, were commonly reported among cannabis users.
“The substantial increased prevalence in states with legalized medical cannabis highlights the importance of structural educational support for patients and clinicians in those states,” Han and colleagues wrote.
Elise Weerts, a professor at Johns Hopkins Medical School, who was not involved in the study, echoed these concerns. She emphasized the widening gap between cannabis use and the understanding of its potential adverse effects.
“One of the most important findings was that those in residence in a state where medical cannabis is legal at the time of interview also showed greater increases in cannabis use,” Weerts said.
An accompanying editorial in JAMA Internal Medicine stressed the lack of consistent data on cannabis use in older adults, even as legalization expands. The editorial authors also voiced concerns about the limited evidence and standards for administering cannabis to this demographic.
“Existing therapeutic evidence for medical cannabis in older adults has been inconsistent across several conditions, with many studies suggesting possible benefits, while others finding limited benefit,” the editorial stated.
The editorial also highlighted potential risks, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and cognitive issues, as well as the frustration felt by older adults due to a lack of age-related awareness at dispensaries and among healthcare workers.
What’s next
Experts agree that further research is crucial to understand the benefits and risks of cannabis use among older adults. Randomized, placebo-controlled trials are needed to assess potential benefits, track adverse effects, and establish clear guidelines for safe and effective use.