A United States federally funded study, released by the American Medical Association (AMA), indicates that many older adults are exploring medicinal cannabis as an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. The research suggests this demographic often seeks to avoid potential negative effects associated with conventional medications or has exhausted other treatment options for conditions such as chronic pain or sleep disturbances. The study’s findings provide preliminary insights into why older adults are increasingly turning to medicinal cannabis. Researchers noted a significant reluctance among many participants to use traditional pharmaceutical treatments.
- Concerns about Adverse Effects: Participants frequently expressed worries about adverse effects, long-term health risks, or dependency associated with pharmaceutical medications, viewing cannabis as a potentially safer alternative.
- Exhaustion of Other Options: Many reported having tried and exhausted various pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic approaches, such as therapy, acupuncture, or massage, for symptom management before considering cannabis.
- Symptom Management: Individuals experiencing substantial physical and mental health burdens, sought cannabis to address new or escalating symptoms related to pain, sleep disturbances or mood changes.
- Personal Networks and Information: Some participants were motivated by information about potential benefits shared through personal networks, medical discussions and media sources.
Read more here.