The use of marijuana among older adults in the United States has been on the rise, with 7% of adults aged 65 and over reporting using it in the past month, according to a recent analysis conducted by researchers at the Center for Drug Use and HIV/HCV Research (CDUHR) at the NYU School of Global Public Health.
Published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the study also revealed a shift in the profile of cannabis users among older adults, showing significant increases in use among those who are college-educated, married, female, and have higher incomes.
The researchers utilized data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 2021 through 2023 to examine the prevalence of marijuana use among older adults. They found that current cannabis use among this demographic had increased to 7% in 2023, up from 4.8% in 2021 and 5.2% in 2022—a nearly 46% increase in just two years.
Certain groups of older adults experienced more substantial increases in cannabis use, including those who are married, white, have a college degree, and earn at least $75,000. Additionally, older women saw a significant rise in cannabis use, although older men still had a higher prevalence of use.
The study also noted a correlation between the legalization of medical marijuana in certain states and an increase in cannabis use among older adults. This suggests that increased availability and social acceptability of cannabis in these states may contribute to the rise in use.
Furthermore, the researchers found that older adults with chronic diseases, including heart issues, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, also showed significant increases in cannabis use.
The authors of the study recommend that clinicians screen and educate their older patients about cannabis use, especially considering how physiological changes that come with aging can make individuals more sensitive to psychoactive substances. They advise caution in using cannabis to manage chronic health symptoms, as it can complicate the management of chronic diseases and pose potential risks if not used properly.
In conclusion, the study highlights the growing trend of marijuana use among older adults in the US and underscores the importance of healthcare providers addressing this issue with their patients. As cannabis use becomes more prevalent among this demographic, it is crucial to ensure that older adults are well-informed about the potential risks and benefits of using marijuana for medical purposes.
