What Seniors Should Consider Before Using Medical Marijuana

According to the National Survey of Drug Use and Health, the number of marijuana users over 65 increased by more than 100% from 2015 to 2019. The numbers will likely increase since, as of 2023, 37 states have legalized some form of medical marijuana.

“More and more medical marijuana pharmacies are opening up. They have pharmacists who are experts in formulating the right type of product, with the right percentage of ingredients, for a given condition,” says Taimur Habib, MD, an internist and geriatrician with Hartford HealthCare Medical Group in Fairfield.
Thinking about giving medical marijuana a go? Here’s what seniors are using medical marijuana to treat and some things to think about before you start.

Weighing your options

Seniors and older adults, Dr. Habib says, are using marijuana for cancer, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, arthritis, seizures and more.
Medical marijuana is said to:

• Treat pain
• Ease nausea and vomiting
• Reduce muscle spasms
• Help with sleep disorders
• Decrease anxiety and depression

The bonus? Marijuana often comes with a lower price tag than other medications, but on the flip side, insurance won’t cover it.

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