A recent study reveals that cannabis usage among older adults in the United States has surged to a record 7% among those aged 65 and older who reported using it in the past month. This analysis, conducted by researchers from the Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research at NYU School of Global Public Health, was published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
The research shows a notable shift in the demographics of cannabis users within this age group, indicating a significant rise in consumption among older adults who are college-educated, married, female, and have higher incomes. The data was drawn from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, covering responses from 2021 to 2023.
The study found that current cannabis use among older adults increased from 4.8% in 2021 to 7% in 2023, marking a nearly 46% rise over two years. Benjamin Han, MD, MPH, an associate professor at the University of California San Diego and the study’s lead author, noted, “This is the first time we were able to examine ‘current’ use of cannabis in this age group. Before, we were only able to look at past-year use because the numbers for current use were too small.”
Historically, cannabis use among older adults was minimal; less than 1% of this group reported using cannabis in 2006 and 2007. However, the current figures reflect a dramatic change in attitudes and acceptance of cannabis use among seniors.
Particular demographics showed sharper increases in cannabis consumption. For instance, married older adults, white individuals, those with a college education, and those earning at least $75,000 annually reported higher usage rates. Notably, older women have also seen a rise in cannabis use, though men still report higher usage overall.
Joseph Palamar, PhD, MPH, a senior author of the study, stated, “Our study shows that cannabis use among older adults continues to increase, although there have been major shifts in use according to demographic and socioeconomic factors.” The study also indicated that cannabis use rose more significantly in states where medical marijuana is legal, suggesting that accessibility and social acceptance may drive these trends.
Interestingly, the study found that the highest-income group had the lowest cannabis use prevalence in 2021. However, by 2023, this group had the highest prevalence, indicating that income may influence access to medical cannabis due to its cost.
Moreover, there was a notable increase in cannabis use among older adults with chronic illnesses, particularly those with multiple conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The authors of the study advise healthcare providers to screen and educate older patients about cannabis use, as aging may heighten sensitivity to psychoactive substances. Dr. Han remarked, “As a geriatrician, I see more and more people interested in using cannabis for treating chronic health symptoms. But cannabis can complicate the management of chronic diseases and be potentially harmful if patients are not educated on its use and potential risks.”
These findings underscore the evolving landscape of cannabis consumption among older adults, highlighting the need for informed discussions surrounding health management and cannabis use in this demographic.
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