The Greying of Cannabis

By Jody Weiler, Adult Intensive Services Manager, Specialized Geriatric Service

An article in ‘Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine’ (January 2018), reports that the surprising increase in cannabis use was observed in those among the older adult population 50 years and older.  More specifically, the greatest increase in cannabis use was in those who were 65 years of age and older. This segment of the population cited their use was less recreational and more medicinal. More research is required to better comprehend the interpretations of these definitions. A majority of senior citizens who report they use pot are life-long users whom initiated this habit in their early-life.  Baby Boomers looked to life altering habits during the 1960’s which increased the permissiveness of the pot culture.  One thing is for certain, the pot of 1960 is significantly different from the pot of 2019. Cannabis from the 1960’s was reported to have a THC level of 6%.  Currently, the range of THC in cannabis ranges from 20-80%!

Controversy, limited research, and conflicting outcomes lead to more questions than answers.  CBD has been reported to have significant potential benefits in treatment and prevention of strokes, pain management, anti-inflammation, analgesic, and anxiety. Those who work in the world of seniors have been advised that creams, oils and edibles are being shared and explored in various seniors’ circles to help in these areas of health complications.  A concern in supporting treatment for depression and anxiety with cannabis, is that in fact, chronic cannabis use makes these conditions worse over time and increase the potential for overuse and increase the prevalence of chronic psychosis (Lloyd and Strivey, 2018).

Older cannabis users have higher rates of overall injury, such as falls etc., than non-users leading to more ER visits and complicated hospital visits (Choi et al., 2016).  Confusion, increase in delirium, cancer and cardiovascular issues are also potential negative risk factors for this population which can be exacerbated by the use of cannabis.  The use and overuse of prescription medications can also contribute to the negative health effects of our seniors. The struggle is that there is not enough evidence to corroborate the safety and effectiveness of cannabis use for medical conditions for our older adults.  The question becomes how do we as clinicians have supportive conversations to meet the needs or explore our client’s right to self-determination?  Perhaps the best solution to such muddy waters, is to continue to our role in educating, encouraging and supporting our clients and care teams to have a common conversation about cannabis and to park our judgement at the door.