Cannabis Use Among Older Adults Climbs Sharply

Cannabis use among adults aged 65 and older has increased by nearly 23 percent over the past two years, according to preliminary data released by federal health agencies in early 2026. The trend represents a notable acceleration from the 12 percent growth observed between 2022 and 2024, signaling sustained interest in cannabis products among a demographic that was largely absent from legal markets during the initial wave of state-level legalization.

The data, drawn from annual surveys conducted by public health researchers and corroborated by state regulatory reports, show that approximately 11 percent of older adults reported using cannabis at least once in the past year, up from 9 percent in 2024. Monthly use rates among this age group climbed to 6.2 percent, marking the first time that figure has exceeded 6 percent in tracking efforts that began in 2018.

Primary motivations and product preferences

Older consumers cite pain management and sleep difficulties as the dominant reasons for cannabis use, according to surveys published in peer-reviewed geriatric medicine journals. Roughly 62 percent of respondents in a multi-state survey indicated they sought cannabis products specifically to address chronic pain conditions, while 47 percent reported using them to improve sleep quality. Anxiety management was cited by 34 percent of older users.

Unlike younger consumer cohorts, older adults show a pronounced preference for non-inhalable formats. Edibles, tinctures, and topical formulations account for approximately 71 percent of product purchases among consumers aged 65 and above, according to aggregated sales data from state regulatory agencies. Industry groups note that this demographic gravitates toward products with clearly labeled dosing information and longer shelf stability.

The demographic shift has prompted state regulators in several jurisdictions to issue updated guidance on product labeling and consumer education materials tailored to older populations. These efforts include standardized dosing recommendations and information about potential interactions with prescription medications.

Clinical perspectives and physician concerns

Healthcare providers are flagging several clinical considerations as cannabis use increases among older patients. Drug interaction risks emerge as the primary concern, particularly for older adults taking multiple prescription medications for cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. Physicians note that cannabis can interact with blood thinners, sedatives, and certain cardiovascular drugs, though systematic research on these interactions remains limited.

Cognitive effects also warrant attention in this age group. While acute impairment is a known risk across all demographics, clinicians emphasize that older adults may experience more pronounced or prolonged cognitive effects due to age-related changes in metabolism and heightened sensitivity to psychoactive compounds. Falls represent another area of concern, given that balance issues and slower reaction times can be exacerbated by cannabis use in older populations.

Medical societies have begun issuing clinical guidance documents urging physicians to screen older patients for cannabis use during routine appointments and to document use in medical records. The guidance emphasizes the importance of open communication about cannabis use patterns, dosing, and any adverse effects patients may be experiencing.

Survey methodology and data limitations

The 2026 data incorporates responses from approximately 18,000 adults aged 65 and older across telephone and online surveys conducted between January and April. Researchers note that self-reported cannabis use may underestimate actual prevalence due to stigma and concerns about disclosure, particularly among older respondents. Additionally, survey instruments do not consistently distinguish between medical and recreational use in states where both frameworks exist, complicating trend analysis.

State-level sales data provide supplementary evidence but cannot capture purchases made through informal channels or across state lines. Researchers emphasize that ongoing monitoring and more granular studies will be necessary to understand long-term patterns and health outcomes in this growing consumer segment.