Cannabis and Older Adults
As we age, changes take place throughout the body, making older adults more vulnerable to the effects of drugs. Changes in the brain as we age include declines in processing speed, reasoning and memory, which are also impacted by cannabis use. Impairment in older adults can lead to increased risk of falling and accidents. Age related decline in kidney and liver functioning affects the way drugs are processed in the body. Cannabis-infused edibles, for example, which are processed by the liver, will affect an older adult much differently than someone who is middle aged.
Older adults should be aware of how cannabis might affect them, especially if they are new to cannabis or if it has been awhile since they have used cannabis.
Always buy from a licensed supplier, know about the difference between THC and CBD, and start with a small amount and wait for the effects before taking more.
Resources
- A guide to cannabis for older adults (PDF) - Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction