10 Things Seniors Should Know About Medical Cannabis
Today’s seniors grew up in a time where “marijuana” was of the devil and legalization of medical cannabis is opening their eyes to the possibilities of trying the formerly frowned upon medicine. For those of us who are a part of the industry, there are certain things we want ALL patients to be aware of – but in this spot, we’d like seniors to be sure they are educated about these 10 things.
1. Cannabis is SAFER than many commonly prescribed medications
Seniors who take prescription drugs are looking for options. The “side effects” of medical cannabis pale in comparison to the side effects of many prescription drugs, and not a single person has ever died from an overdose of cannabis. The powerful medicinal effects of cannabis can provide relief for many disorders including liver inflammation from Hepatitis C, lupus, irritable bowel syndrome, and many other serious medical conditions that all involve inflammation and oxidative damage.
2. Cannabis is not physically addictive
New-to-cannabis patients fear that if they start using cannabis they’ll become addicted to this “gateway drug” as portrayed in some media, but is completely false. Discontinuing the use of cannabis has much the same response as quitting the consumption of coffee. Many people who seek welcome and effective respite from chronic pain, anxiety, and stress use cannabis as a daily treatment.
3. Cannabis can reduce and possibly replace many prescription medications
A major complaint of seniors regarding their daily medications is that the first pill often causes side effects that the second one is supposed to “fix.” Cannabis’ healing properties target various conditions such as inflamed joints, high blood pressure, chronic pain, digestive disorders, constipation, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, cognitive awareness, and more.
4. There are many different types, or “strains” of cannabis
Each plant has its own personality and effects. There are strains that are very helpful for chronic pain relief some strains can make one feel very focused and energized, while others can be relaxing and help with a good night’s sleep. You should talk with a medical professional who knows cannabis to determine which strains might be best for your individual conditions.
5. There are cannabis strains without “the high”
“If I could get the medical benefit from the plant without the high, I’d consider it.” say many seniors willing to have the conversation. Cultivators have developed and are currently producing potent CBD genetic strains that have minimal psychoactive effect. CBD, or cannabidiol, is tremendous for inflammation, eases pain, stimulates bone growth, suppresses muscular spasms, reduces anxiety, and increases mental focus.
6. There are ways to use cannabis other than smoking it
One common misconception among seniors is that must smoke cannabis to gain the medicinal benefits. Today’s market provides liquid extracts, infused honey, candies, baked goods, and other products to choose from. Cannabis can be added to just about any regular recipe in the form of cannabis infused butters or oils.
7. Cannabis-infused ointments can be very effective in alleviating arthritis and neuropathy pain
Quality topical are very popular for sore joints and muscles and back pain. They are very effective, smell nice and provide localized relief so you can feel comfortable using the products throughout the day.
8. Cannabis does not lower your IQ or cause brain damage
Another common myth aging adults have heard about cannabis is that can lower intelligence or cause brain damage . There is no documentation that shows that cannabis either reduces or “kills brain cells.” Studies on research among Alzheimers and Parkinsons patients indicate that cannabis gradually encourages new neural pathways, allowing those with impaired brain function to potentially halt further degeneration and even encourage brain function.
9. Cannabis can help increase your appetite
A very real health risk among seniors is the loss of appetite, leading to weight loss. Cannabis has been extremely successful in alleviating nausea and as an appetite stimulant.
10. The stigma around medical cannabis use is fading
Seniors are the fastest growing population of medical cannabis patients. Medical cannabis can be a valuable part of your treatment plan. Be sure you talk with medical professionals who are well versed in cannabis medicine to ensure you have the education you need.