As cannabis becomes more widely accepted and accessible nationwide, use among older adults is on the rise. Many people in this demographic view marijuana as a “safe” alternative to prescription medications or alcohol – especially if they experimented with it decades ago. However, today’s cannabis strains are far more potent, and regular use can have serious health consequences.
At Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat, we’ve seen firsthand how marijuana use can complicate physical and mental health in older adults. Our 55+ specialized treatment program is a safe, hospital-based setting to address cannabis dependency.
Why Are More Older Adults Using Cannabis?
Older adults increasingly turn to marijuana for multiple reasons:
- Widespread legalization has reduced stigma and increased access.
- Some doctors recommend specific cannabis products to manage chronic pain, anxiety or insomnia.
- CBD or medical marijuana may seem like all-natural alternatives to prescription drugs.
- Some return to marijuana use out of nostalgia, assuming it’s as mild as it was in the 1970s.
Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware of how dramatically marijuana has changed. Modern cannabis strains have exponentially higher levels of the psychoactive compound THC than they did five decades ago, due largely to growers choosing more potent strains. The lack of government oversight increases the risk of experiencing unpleasant side effects, especially for those with age-related health conditions.
Health Risks of Cannabis Use in Older Adults
While marijuana has a reputation for being benign and “chemical-free,” it is still a psychoactive substance that can affect the body and brain – especially in older people with chronic conditions.
- Cognitive decline and poor memory: THC can impair short-term memory and concentration. In aging adults, marijuana use may worsen early signs of dementia or cause new memory issues to appear.
- Cardiovascular problems: Cannabis can strain the cardiovascular system by elevating heart rate and blood pressure, which is particularly dangerous for people with hypertension, arrhythmia or heart disease.
- Respiratory issues: Smoking or vaping marijuana may lead to chronic coughing, bronchitis and breathing difficulties, especially in those with asthma or COPD.
- Balance and coordination: THC impairs motor function and increases the risk of falls and injuries – a crucial concern for seniors.
- Mood and mental health challenges: Many older adults self-medicate depression, anxiety, grief or loneliness with cannabis, but long-term use may worsen mood disorders or trigger paranoia and confusion.
Yes, Marijuana Can Be Addictive
Contrary to popular belief, marijuana can be habit-forming. People who use cannabis daily – or feel anxious, irritable or unable to sleep without it – may experience symptoms of marijuana use disorder. Statistics suggest one in 10 cannabis users will become addicted, and the risk increases for those who begin using heavily later in life to manage chronic pain or emotional distress.
Older adults may not recognize these signs as addiction, especially those who use medical marijuana under a doctor’s supervision. However, overreliance on cannabis can interfere with daily life, lead to increased health risks and delay appropriate treatment for underlying issues.
Tailored Treatment for Older Adults at HVRC
Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat has developed a hospital-based recovery program specifically for adults 55 and older. Our team understands the unique challenges aging adults face, including chronic pain, grief, isolation and co-occurring medical conditions.
Our 55+ program provides:
- Medically supervised detox and stabilization for cannabis and other substances
- Cognitive assessments to evaluate memory and brain function
- Emotional support and therapy for depression, anxiety and trauma
- Education on marijuana’s health impacts in older adults
- Alternative pain relief and symptom management techniques without relying on THC
Cannabis Dependency Shouldn’t Steal the Golden Years
While cannabis may seem like a low-risk option, older adults deserve the facts about how it can harm their health. Marijuana is not harmless, especially in today’s high-potency forms, and dependence can develop even when use starts with innocent intentions.
Help is available if an older adult in your life struggles with marijuana use or shows signs of cognitive, physical or emotional decline linked to cannabis. Contact us today to learn more about our hospital-based 55+ program.