A new study supported by the AARP shows that marijuana use among Americans aged 50 and older has nearly doubled over the last three years. According to the research conducted by the University of Michigan, more than one in five older adults reported using marijuana within the past year. This reflects a major increase from the 12 percent who reported the same in a prior study conducted in 2021.
Researchers believe this rise is tied to the increasing legalization of cannabis across the U.S., which has made marijuana more accessible. The study suggests that use rates will likely continue to grow as more states legalize marijuana and the federal government revisits its scheduling of cannabis products under the Controlled Substances Act.
Reasons for Increased Use
Among those who reported using marijuana in the last year, a variety of reasons were cited. The majority (81 percent) said they used it for relaxation, while 68 percent mentioned using it to aid with sleep. A notable 63 percent also reported using marijuana for pain relief, and 53 percent said they turned to it to promote mental health and overall well-being.
Interestingly, the study also found that many users enjoyed the experience itself, with 64 percent of respondents indicating they simply liked how marijuana made them feel. The findings suggest that older Americans are increasingly viewing marijuana as a tool not just for medical purposes but for enhancing quality of life.
The Demographics Behind the Numbers
Breaking down the data further, the study revealed that adults aged 50 to 64 were more likely to use marijuana on a monthly basis compared to those over 65. Additionally, people in poorer health or from lower-income households also reported higher usage rates.
In Michigan, a state that has embraced adult-use cannabis sales since 2019, 27 percent of respondents reported using marijuana within the past year. Of that group, 14 percent said they used it weekly, and 9 percent were daily or near-daily users.
Concerns About Education and Awareness
While many older Americans are turning to marijuana, the researchers behind the study stress the importance of education on the risks and potential interactions cannabis may have with other medications.
Erin E. Bonar, a researcher involved in the study, pointed out that while many older adults believe cannabis is stronger now than it was in the past, a significant portion may still be unaware of just how potent today’s products can be.
“With cannabis now legal in 38 states, we’re seeing a rise in use, but there’s still a gap in education, particularly on the potential risks of frequent use,” Bonar said. The research highlights the need for ongoing efforts to educate the public, especially older adults who may not be familiar with the strength of modern marijuana products.
Encouraging Open Dialogue with Healthcare Providers
The study emphasizes the importance of older adults discussing their marijuana use with healthcare providers. More than half of regular cannabis users said they had discussed their use with a doctor or healthcare professional, but researchers warn that this still leaves a significant portion of users who may not be aware of potential drug interactions or other risks.
Jeffrey Kullgren, an internal medicine professor at the University of Michigan, underscored the importance of this dialogue. “Many prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs can interact with cannabis in unexpected ways. It's vital for users to keep their healthcare providers informed to mitigate risks,” he said.
Potential for Future Research
As the federal government continues to reconsider its stance on marijuana, particularly with the possibility of rescheduling cannabis, researchers are hopeful that this will open the door for more comprehensive studies.
Currently, many limitations exist on cannabis research due to its classification as a Schedule I substance. Federal rescheduling would allow for greater exploration into how cannabis can be used safely and effectively, especially for older adults who may have unique health concerns.
Personal Perspective
As I reflect on this significant rise in marijuana use among older Americans, it becomes clear that this demographic is looking for alternative ways to manage pain, improve sleep, and enhance overall well-being. In a world where traditional medications may carry undesirable side effects, it’s no surprise that many are turning to cannabis as a potential solution.
Personally, I find this development intriguing but not without concern. While it’s encouraging to see more people feeling empowered to explore new ways to improve their quality of life, it’s essential that they do so with the right information and medical guidance.
As cannabis becomes more mainstream, ensuring that older users are aware of its risks and benefits will be key in fostering a safer, more informed approach to its use.
