Poll: 21% of Adults Aged 50+ Used THC-Rich Cannabis At Least Once in Past Year

The University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging released last week found that 21% of all respondents 50 and older used a form of cannabis with THC at least once in the past year. The survey found that 12% of those who used a cannabis product – more than half – did so at least once a month.   

Those aged 50 to 64, and those who are in fair or poor physical health, or lower-income households, were more likely to report using cannabis at least monthly, according to the survey. 

Relaxing was the number one reason the cohort consumed cannabis (81%), followed by help with sleep (68%), to feel good (64%), pain relief (63%), and for their mental health or to improve their mood (53%). A majority of the respondents (56%) said they had discussed their cannabis use with a healthcare provider.  

In a statement, poll director Jeffrey Kullgren, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., noted that “Even if your doctor, nurse practitioner or pharmacist doesn’t ask if you’re using cannabis products, it’s important to offer this information, no matter whether you’re using it to address a physical or mental health concern, or simply for pleasure.”  

“Many prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs, as well as alcohol, can interact with cannabis and cause unexpected or unwanted effects,” he said in a press release. “And there are only a few conditions where we have good evidence of a medical benefit from cannabis, though this could change with time.” 

Nearly 80% of respondents said they believed cannabis today was stronger than it was 20 to 30 years ago.