Since the Cannabis Act came into effect on October 17, 2018, more Canadians have been exploring the health benefits of this ancient plant. New laws surrounding cannabis allowed for easier access, and the frequency of Canadians using cannabis rose following legalization.
Around 16.8% of Canadians (around 5.1 million people aged 15 or older) reported using cannabis in the three months prior to surveying. This reflected a significant increase over the 14.9% of Canadians reporting use in 2018 prior to legalization.
Surprisingly to some, cannabis use amongst senior citizens is accelerating at a faster rate when compared to other age groups. In fact, the sharp increase in consumption by this demographic has increased the average age of cannabis users in Canada from 29.4 years in 2004 to 38.1 years in 2019.
Cannabis for Seniors: Leaving the stigma behind
When speaking to seniors about their thoughts on cannabis, some admit to feeling hesitant about trying it out themselves. Many of these individuals were raising children in the 1970’s and 1980’s when anti-drug campaigns were taking centre stage across the globe. Because of this, there remains a bit of stigma surrounding the drug.
Many seniors express feeling hypocritical about wanting to explore the benefits of medical cannabis, especially when then they so strongly discouraged their children and grandchildren from partaking.
Luckily, science is bringing to light the many benefits of this natural, healing plant. There is emerging research that supports the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis for conditions common amongst senior citizens including:
Due to its increasing popularity, cannabis is being used medicinally more often. In fact, 52% of Canadian seniors using cannabis report doing so for medical reasons exclusively.
You don’t have to smoke cannabis to feel the benefits
Many seniors express concern about smoking and the potential negative health outcomes that could arise from it. Additionally, many individuals over 65 have had to work hard to break the smoking habits of their youth. Due to this, it is not uncommon for older adults to worry about smoking cannabis, even for medical reasons.
However, there are many ways to consume cannabis that do not involve smoking it. Although inhalation (both smoking and using a vapourizer) is preferred by some, there are other ways of taking medical cannabis. These different methods of consumption, along with the dosage and strain of the cannabis, will vary from patient to patient depending on their unique health concerns. Some of the common methods include:
- Oral ingestion (capsules, edibles and tinctures)
- Topically (creams, salves and patches)
Are you a senior in Canada interested in learning more about medical cannabis?
The best way to know if medical cannabis would be a helpful addition to your healthcare regime is to come in for a telemedical consultation with a physician at one of our medical cannabis clinics in Calgary, Edmonton, or Grand Prairie. With the convenience of telemedicine, we’re now able to treat patients outside of Alberta.
Appointments for Alberta residents are free and covered by Alberta Health Services. Prior to your medical consultation with one of our physicians, you will be educated on how medical cannabis works in our body and how it reacts to our endocannabinoid system.
During your education session with a Cann-Expert, you will learn:
- The main differences between an Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid strain
- Benefits of THC, CBD, and Balanced strains
- Our unique Endocannabinoid Systems (ECS)
- The timing of inhalation vs ingestion
At the time of your consultation, your Revolution Medical Cannabis doctor will review your medical history and ensure that cannabis will not conflict with any medications you’re currently taking.
Our Calgary, Grand Prairie, and Edmonton medical cannabis doctors will then prescribe the best treatment plan for you. Our team will guide you in selecting a licensed producer as well as the registration.
Schedule your medical cannabis consultation with a doctor today!
Schedule Your Next-Day Appointment
Are you ready to explore the benefits of medical marijuana? Contact Revolution Medical Cannabis today and schedule your free appointment with a cannabis educator and physician.
