The stigma surrounding cannabis is fading, but many people are still under the impression that it’s for younger people. On the contrary, medical marijuana has proven itself useful for all ages, especially older adults. When it comes to medical marijuana for elderly patients, there are several reasons that it’s even more beneficial!
Safer than Prescription Medications
First and foremost, studies have shown that medical marijuana is safer than most prescription drugs. The majority of prescribed drugs these days can produce a number of negative side effects. Aside from dry mouth, marijuana is practically side effect free!
Can Reduce or Replace Prescription Medications
So we know that medical marijuana is safer for elderly patients, but research has shown that it can also reduce or even replace prescription medications. Opioids like Vicodin and Oxycontin, manage pain from a vast array of illnesses that cause bone, joint, and/or nerve pain in older adults. While they (usually) effectively treat pain, opioids commonly produce side effects like nausea, vomiting, constipation, etc…
Cannabis, on the other hand, can treat pain symptoms without any of these side effects, thus reducing the need for opioids.
Can Increase Appetite
Many elderly people struggle with maintaining their appetite. Marijuana increases appetite, helping the patient to avoid malnutrition. In turn, this will also help to prevent related injury by keeping the joints, muscles and bones strong.
You Don't have to Get High
Many older patients are searching for relief, but disregard marijuana because they are not interested in “getting high”. Luckily, there are hundreds of different strains to choose from, all of which are capable of treating the same illnesses. Out of these strains, there are low THC, high CBD options that can treat your symptoms without the psychoactive effects!
You Don't have to Smoke
You don’t have to get high and you also don’t have to smoke in order to reap cannabis’ benefits. There are many different methods of use including but not limited to: edibles, liquid concentrates, and topicals. You can simply eat an edible, drop a little liquid concentrate into your morning coffee or tea and even apply the medicine directly to your skin! Our point is, you have many different options when it comes to experiencing this incredible medicine.
Non-Addictive
One of the best things about cannabis is that it is non-addictive. While it is possible to build up a tolerance, you will never go through withdrawals if you choose to stop using it. Opioids and other prescription medications can cause you to build a tolerance and in extreme cases, become addicted. If you become addicted to opioids, you will experience withdrawal symptoms if you try to stop.
When it comes to medical marijuana for elderly patients, it can't hurt to ask! See if your illness can be treated with medical marijuana by calling Marijuana Doctor at (786) 224-4005 or schedule a free consultation online.
