JOURNAL

Cannabis has grown up. Seniors (folks over 65) are the fastest growing demographic of cannabis users in the United States. As societal attitudes toward marijuana evolve, increasing numbers of aging people are turning to cannabis for its reported health benefits and as an effective means of improving their quality of life. As more scientific data bears out the advantages of cannabis, negative attitudes and fears are fading. The past decade alone has seen a seismic shift in perception of cannabis for a generation who lived through the Free Love and the War on Drugs movements. Aging comes with a host of physical and mental health issues, ranging from the mundane to severe. Those include but aren’t limited to insomnia, chronic pain and arthritis, neuropathy, anxiety, decrease in appetite and side effects of other illnesses. Recent studies have also shown promise in using cannabis for treatment of symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Seniors are finding that cannabis not only offers relief, but does so without many of the side effects and cost of pharmaceuticals. As the conversation turns toward federal legalization, the body of scientific evidence is growing and the societal and medical stigmas will continue to diminish. As we’ve discussed in previous journal posts, cannabis contains over one hundred known cannabinoids, which humans have receptors for. We humans also have an endocannabinoid system, which promotes balance and homeostasis. Since we produce fewer cannabinoids as we age, imbalances frequently arise. CBD, in particular, has proven analgesic properties and both THC and CBD work as anti-inflammatories. Popular products in this category include Om Arnica Bath Salts and Mary's Medicinals THCa : CBD Tincture. For sleep issues we recommend Rose Delights Rosin Gummies and Pabst Midnight Berries Seltzer for their sedative effects. CBD has also shown great potential in managing anxiety. For that, we recommend Papa & Barkley Sleep Gummies and Halara Cloud 9 Vape Cartridge. If you need an appetite stimulant, strains with higher THC content — such as RS-11 and Maui Wowie — may be beneficial. As well, given the concerns about opioid dependence, cannabis can be a less addictive alternative for pain management. In this category, Peach ZKittlez and Hedonia have proven very popular. Cannabis use doesn’t come without risks for the aging population. Over-co nsumption and bad trips can lead to dizziness and disorientation, resulting in falls, which are the leading cause of injury for those over 65. Other considerations are potential interactions with other medications and storing one’s stash properly and safely. As cannabis gains acceptance as a therapeutic (and recreational) option, seniors will continue to explore the benefits of incorporating various applications of the plant (smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, etc) into their regular wellness routine. As a general rule for those new to cannabis, we recommend an approach of low (the dosage) and slow (an incremental increase in dosage as needed).

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As cannabis legalization continues, research on the cannabis plant is ramping up — and the signs for anxiety sufferers are very promising

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It’s perhaps the most common question a cannabis consumer gets when they enter a dispensary – do you want a sativa or indica high?