The Columbia University in New York has conducted research on the increasing use of marijuana among Americans aged 65 and older.
Based on Health and Retirement Study (HRS)* data, the cannabis habits of 1,324 people were analyzed; finding past year use in the U.S. was reported by 18.5% of middle-age and 5.9% of older adult. Studying primarily age groups 50-64 and 65+.
Furthermore:
- In both groups, smoking was the most common method of consumption.
- The majority of cannabis users, including middle-aged and older adults, use it to treat medical conditions.
- A prescription or recommendation from the healthcare provider was given to 20% of this group.
- Medical use is acceptable to more than 75 percent of both the older and younger groups.
Older adults, however, were more inclined to see cannabis as “a gateway” to other drugs and support cannabis law restrictions.
According to the researchers:
The use of cannabis by older and middle-aged U.S. adults was higher than reported previously in studies conducted at the state and national level, and many engaged in cannabis-related behaviors that increased harm. “We need to increase public health efforts and focus on clinical care for prevention and intervention.”
Paul Armentano’s Deputy director at NORML isn’t shocked by the increasing interest among seniors, but is positive about conclusions.
Many middle-aged and elderly adults suffer from pain, anxiety, sleeplessness, and other conditions which cannabis products may alleviate. he said. Many older adults also know the long list of side effects that come with prescription medications, such as opioids and sleep aids. They see medical marijuana as an alternative, which is both practical and safer.
This study was conducted to find out more about the effects of smoking on health. has been published The American Journal of Preventative Medicine.
A study conducted in the US in 2018 found that cannabis consumption by US adults 65 and older increased from less than 1% in 2005 to more than 4.2%.
*The HRS is a nationally representative survey of individuals over age 50 across the USA. This survey is conducted every two years, since 1992. It’s currently funded by both the National Institute on Aging & the Social Security Administration.