Cannabis use is becoming increasingly common among older adults in the United States, a shift driven by changing laws, reduced stigma and the widespread belief that the drug is harmless. But as use rises, so does a question that has received surprisingly little attention: how often does cannabis become a problem for this age group?
A new study offers a sobering answer. Roughly one in nine older adults who use cannabis may meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder, a condition marked by dependence, difficulty cutting back and negative consequences in daily life. Older users may be especially vulnerable because their bodies metabolise the drug differently and because they often take other medications that can interact with it. The findings challenge the assumption that cannabis is a benign indulgence for seniors and highlight the need for screening and support. As the population ages and attitudes continue to loosen, understanding the risks of cannabis for older adults will become an increasingly important part of public health.
