A new study revealed that boomers are embracing cannabis as the use among seniors has nearly doubled since 2021, raising serious concerns about the consequences of “legal” drug promotion in America.
The study showed 7% of adults over 65 are now using cannabis, compared to less than 1% in 2006, demonstrating how quickly drug normalization is spreading to vulnerable populations.
The hidden dangers of this trend threaten seniors while government agencies and the medical establishment seem increasingly willing to look the other way.
According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, marijuana use among Americans aged 65 and older increased by a staggering 46% between 2021 and 2023.
Researchers from NYU School of Global Public Health found that 7% of seniors reported using cannabis within the past month in 2023, up from 4.8% in 2021.
This dramatic rise coincides with the rapid expansion of marijuana legalization across numerous states, despite the drug remaining illegal at the federal level.
Particularly concerning is the finding that wealthy seniors are leading this trend.
Older adults with annual incomes exceeding $75,000 showed the most significant increase, with usage rates more than doubling from 4.2% in 2021 to 9.1% in 2023.
This suggests that marijuana commercialization is effectively targeting America’s retirees with disposable income.
Many seniors are turning to cannabis as an alternative treatment for chronic conditions including hypertension, diabetes, and COPD.
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) reported that older adults use marijuana primarily for relaxation (81%), as a sleep aid (68%), for enjoyment (64%), pain relief (63%), and mental health issues (53%).
This trend reflects growing distrust in pharmaceutical solutions and government-approved medical treatments.
What many seniors do not realize is that today’s marijuana is far more potent than what was available decades ago.
THC levels have increased dramatically, leading to a surge in emergency room visits among older cannabis users.
The risks include dangerous changes in heart rate and blood pressure, respiratory problems, impaired coordination, memory issues, and increased fall risk – all particularly hazardous for elderly individuals.
Perhaps most alarming is the potential for drug interactions. Cannabis can interact with medications commonly prescribed to seniors, including blood thinners like warfarin, opioid pain relievers, and anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines.
Despite these risks, a 2024 report found that only 56% of older adults who use cannabis monthly have discussed it with their healthcare providers.
Moreover, the Washington Times said that many seniors view cannabis as a “natural” alternative to pharmaceuticals, a misconception that could have serious consequences.
Meanwhile, the medical establishment appears unprepared to address this growing issue, with researchers calling for better evidence on cannabis risks and benefits specifically for older populations.
This dramatic shift in drug use among America’s seniors highlights the consequences of relaxing drug laws and normalizing substances that were once universally recognized as harmful.
At the same time, this issue underscores the urgency with which the medical community must respond to these changing norms and the critical role policymakers play in ensuring seniors are informed about the potential risks involved with cannabis use.
As marijuana commercialization continues to expand with slick marketing campaigns targeting vulnerable populations, the nation’s elderly are increasingly at risk of addiction, adverse health effects, and dangerous drug interactions.
