Many older adults are leery of any product with anything resembling “cannabis” in the name due to the longstanding federal prejudice against it. Marijuana was largely introduced in the early 1900s from south of the border, and became associated with immigrants, who triggered fear and prejudice that was conferred on the cannabis they brought into the States. These feelings intensified during the Great Depression (Frontline, n.d.). However, that attitude is finally changing as many states have legalized marijuana, especially for medical use. As these changes occur, older Americans are realizing that there is no harm, and a lot of potential good, in trying pot’s non-psychoactive cousin.

Among Americans sixty-five years and older, 20 percent said they had tried CBD oil in a January 2019 Consumer Reports survey, up from 14 percent a year earlier (Gill, 2020). That number is growing as there are more ways now than ever to introduce CBD into a daily regimen. Two basic routes of use exist: topical application (creams, salves, patches, roll-ons, bath bombs, etc.) and ingestible options (oils, gummies, capsules, infused drinks, etc.). Joint and muscle pain are typically treated with topical CBD products. Insomnia, anxiety, and more severe, chronic pain are typically treated with ingestible CBD products. There are enough options to allow individuals to find the intake option that works best for them. CBD also is available through a vaporized liquid. As long-term effects from vaping are not known, this method of CBD use is strongly discouraged.

CBD use may cause unexpected interaction with other drugs commonly used by older adults. These drugs with potential interactions range from liver medications to blood thinners, according to Harvard Medical. The best course of action is always to consult your primary care physician to understand potential drug interactions (Bykov, 2021).