Medical Marijuana and Aging
The current perception of medical marijuana is shifting. Today, many older adults consider it a treatment for their many ailments. In 2017, the University of Michigan conducted a national poll on medical marijuana using a large sample size of adults aged 50-80. The poll found that 4 out of 5 adults support the use of medical marijuana when recommended by a doctor. This knowledge raises the question of how well medical marijuana aids in the aging process and the benefits of medical marijuana for older adults. Read on as we explore the topic.
What effect does marijuana have on aging?
The aging process is complicated, and there is much needed to learn. It is believed that genetics, cellular function, and environmental factors all play roles in the aging process. The effects of aging can be influenced by factors such as one's way of life, diet, and exposure to harmful substances.
More research is necessary to fully understand the impact of marijuana on aging, which is still poorly understood. Marijuana use may have adverse effects on cognitive function and memory. Chronic marijuana use has been associated with diminished focus, slowed reaction times, and hampered capacity for learning and remembering. However, there is evidence that cannabis may have advantages for the elderly, including reducing pain and promoting restful sleep. Nonetheless, more study is required to understand these potential benefits and safety fully.
There is also limited evidence to support the use of marijuana for anti-aging or anti-inflammatory effects, and more research is needed to understand its potential impact on the aging process fully. The notion that marijuana can reverse aging is not supported by current scientific evidence, and more research is needed to understand its effects on aging entirely.
What are the risks of medical cannabis for older adults?
There are many dangers associated with medical cannabis use that seniors should be aware of. Impaired cognitive function, which can negatively affect memory, attention, and reaction time, is a significant concern. Medical cannabis has been shown to increase the risk of falls, confusion, and mood or behavior changes, which may be especially problematic for the elderly. Furthermore, the risk of adverse drug interactions and other side effects is amplified when medical cannabis is combined with other medications that older adults may take. Finally, because the body's ability to process and excrete chemicals declines with age, long-term use of medical cannabis may also increase the risk of negative health outcomes in older adults.
The benefits of medical marijuana for older adults
Many people experience aches and pains, disturbed sleep, and irritability as a result of getting older. Evidence suggests that medical marijuana may have several advantages for people of retirement age, including reducing chronic pain, improving sleep quality, stimulating appetite, and suppressing inflammation. These benefits can significantly affect the quality of life for many seniors by facilitating the control of these symptoms and giving way to a higher standard of living.
Many anecdotes exist on the possible benefits of medical marijuana for older adults. Many personal accounts have shown that the drug can help give them a clearer mind and help them interact with family and friends like they used to. These are personal accounts, so they should not be taken as clear evidence. It is on the science to understand why this is the case and what is happening.
The Science
Although more evidence is needed to understand the pros and cons of marijuana use, some studies have been done. Overall the evidence is mixed. Some studies, like a 2017 study, found that marijuana has some link to speeding the aging process. The study suggests that this is mainly due to the method of ingestion being smoking. However, more research is needed to back up the claims. One study published in 2019 found that cannabis can help treat various issues, but more should be examined when looking at the adverse effects.
Stay Informed
We don't know everything about the aging process, and medical marijuana is still very under-researched. In the future, you can expect more thorough studies on the subject. As for now, you can talk to a medical professional or doctor about using medical marijuana to help you live a better life. Visit our conditions page to learn more, or book an appointment today.
