Record high cannabis use among older adults reaches 7 percent; demographics and state legalization shape prevalence

Cannabis use among US adults 65 and older reached a new high, with 7% reporting past-month use in 2023. The analysis, based on National Survey on Drug Use and Health data from 2021 to 2023, found current (past-month) use rose from 4.8% in 2021 and 5.2% in 2022, nearly a 46% increase in two years. The profile of users also shifted, with larger increases among older adults who are college-educated, married, female, and higher income. Use grew more in states where medical marijuana is legal. Increases were also seen among older adults with chronic diseases, including heart issues, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Clinicians are urged to screen older patients and provide education, since aging can increase sensitivity to psychoactive substances and cannabis may complicate chronic disease management.