Cannabis: An Emerging Treatment for Common Symptoms in Older Adults. Issue 1 (7th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yang, Kevin H.; Kaufmann, Christopher N.; Nafsu, Reva; Lifset, Ella T.; Nguyen, Khai; Sexton, Michelle; Han, Benjamin H.; Kim, Arum; Moore, Alison A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. Volume 69:Issue 1(2021)
• Page Start: 91
• Page End: 97
• Publication Date: 2020-10-07
• Subjects: cannabis -- patient care -- medical cannabis -- use patterns; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16833
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-8614

Abstract

Abstract : BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Use of cannabis is increasing in a variety of populations in the United States; however, few investigations about how and for what reasons cannabis is used in older populations exist. DESIGN: Anonymous survey. SETTING: Geriatrics clinic. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 568 adults 65 years and older. INTERVENTION: Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS: Survey assessing characteristics of cannabis use. RESULTS: Approximately 15% (N = 83) of survey responders reported using cannabis within the past 3 years. Half (53%) reported using cannabis regularly on a daily or weekly basis, and reported using cannabidiol‐only products (46%). The majority (78%) used cannabis for medical purposes only, with the most common targeted conditions/symptoms being pain/arthritis (73%), sleep disturbance (29%), anxiety (24%), and depression (17%). Just over three‐quarters reported cannabis "somewhat" or "extremely" helpful in managing one of these conditions, with few adverse effects. Just over half obtained cannabis via a dispensary, and lotions (35%), tinctures (35%), and smoking (30%) were the most common administration forms. Most indicated family members (94%) knew about their cannabis use, about half reported their friends knew, and 41% reported their healthcare provider knowing. Sixty‐one percent used cannabis for the first time as older adults (aged ≥61 years), and these users overall engaged in less risky use patterns (e.g., more likely to use for medical purposes, less likely to consume via smoking). CONCLUSION: Most older adults in the sample initiated cannabis use after the age of 60 years and used it primarily for medical purposes to treat pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and/or depression. Cannabis use by older adults is likely to increase due to medical need, favorable legalization, and attitudes.