When Susan, 68, first began experiencing chronic joint pain, she never imagined cannabis would become part of her wellness routine. “I was skeptical,” she admits. “But after trying a topical CBD cream, I finally slept through the night for the first time in years.”
Susan’s experience isn’t unusual. According to a Michigan Medicine study, among people aged 50 and up, 21% used cannabis in the past year and 12% partake at least monthly. And usage among older adults has more than doubled over the last decade, according to the Pew Research Center. With more people exploring cannabis for pain, anxiety, and sleep support, the conversation around aging and cannabis is changing rapidly.
To help clear the air, we spoke with Andrew Eckert, a medical cannabis educator who holds a Master of Science in Cannabis Science and Therapeutics. His goal? To help older adults explore cannabis options confidently and safely.
Understanding THC & CBD
Cannabis contains more than 100 active compounds known as cannabinoids. The two best known—THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—each play a unique role. THC is the compound that produces a euphoric “high,” but it also has benefits for sleep and pain. CBD, on the other hand, is non-intoxicating and is often used to ease anxiety, reduce inflammation, and manage joint discomfort.
“Many older adults prefer CBD because it promotes relaxation without impairing mental clarity,” explains Eckert. “But in some cases, small doses of THC combined with CBD can be more effective, especially for sleep or more severe pain.”
What Are the Risks for Older Adults?
As we age, our bodies metabolize substances differently, and cannabis is no exception. Even mild doses can have unexpected effects.
Some potential side effects include confusion, dizziness, or increased sedation. There’s also the risk of cannabis interacting with other medications, including blood thinners, antidepressants, and sleep aids. Eckert stresses the importance of speaking with your doctor before trying any cannabis product, especially if you take multiple prescriptions.
Finding Relief: Best Cannabis Options for Older Adults
For those who are curious but hesitant, topical creams and salves can be a gentle entry point. These are often used for arthritis, joint pain, or neuropathy, and because they don’t enter the bloodstream, there’s no psychoactive effect. Tinctures and oils offer full-body relief and allow for easier dosing, while capsules and edibles provide longer-lasting effects but take more time to kick in.
Popular delivery methods for older adults include:
Topical creams and salves for localized pain relief without a high
Tinctures or oils placed under the tongue for general pain or sleep support
Edibles or capsules for longer-lasting relief, especially for chronic discomfort
Each option comes with its own onset time and effect duration, so starting with a small dose and being patient is key.
Choosing a Safe, High-Quality Product
With cannabis now widely available, quality and safety vary dramatically. Eckert recommends sticking to products from licensed dispensaries or medical programs, which are subject to higher safety standards.
Look for the following when choosing a cannabis product:
Third-party lab testing (COA): Ensures the product is free of pesticides, mold, or heavy metals
Clear dosage labeling: So you know exactly how much THC or CBD is in each serving
Avoid delta-8 and similar THC variants: These are often unregulated and poorly tested
“If you’re unsure, bring the label to your doctor,” says Eckert. “They can help you assess its safety.”
Start Low, Go Slow, and Track Your Experience
If you’re trying cannabis for the first time, the golden rule is to start with a low dose and increase gradually. It may take up to two hours to feel the effects, especially with edibles, so patience is essential. A whopping 61% of cannabis consumers who have the dose information of their marijuana edibles or beverages consume 10 mg or less at a time.
Keeping a journal or digital note of what you took, how much, and how you felt afterward can help you track what works for your body. Staying hydrated and avoiding driving or operating machinery while adjusting to new products is also advised. Finally, remember that everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different, what works for someone else might not be right for you.
Aging Well, on Your Terms
Cannabis isn’t a cure-all, but for many older adults, it’s becoming a helpful tool in managing discomfort and improving sleep. As stigma fades and research grows, more people over 60 are discovering safe and responsible ways to include cannabis in their wellness routines.
Whether you’re seeking relief from joint pain, anxiety, or sleepless nights, the key is to stay informed, go slowly, and consult your doctor. With the right guidance, cannabis may just offer a little more comfort on the journey of aging well.
About the expert
Andrew Eckert is a graduate of the Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Pharmacy. He is not a medical professional. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice.
Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any cannabis-based treatment or making changes to your current care plan.
