Why it matters: Doctors are warning seniors about the risks of consuming too much cannabis, particularly edibles, which can cause panic. There has been a significant uptick in emergency room visits for elderly individuals due to this issue.
What they are saying: Doctors are recommending that seniors educate themselves on the differences between edibles, topicals, and smokable products so they can consume cannabis properly. Seniors are turning to cannabis for various medical purposes, such as to help with sleeping and to treat common symptoms of aging, with 80% of those who reported using cannabis doing so for medicinal reasons, according to a study from the University of California San Diego.
The big picture: Modern cannabis products are more potent than those from previous decades, making it necessary for consumers to research before consuming them. In some cases, seniors who are used to lighter doses may consume too much cannabis.
What to watch: Emergency room visits involving individuals aged 65 and older who use cannabis have increased 1,804% in the past 15 years, according to researchers from the University of California San Diego. Proper titration is crucial to prevent panicked calls to the emergency room.
My take: It is important for seniors to educate themselves on proper cannabis consumption to prevent unnecessary emergency room visits. While cannabis can be helpful for medical purposes, it also carries risks if not used properly. It is crucial for consumers of all ages to research the products they are consuming and follow proper dosages and consumption methods.
