As cannabis legalization continues to reshape the Canadian landscape, a new trend is emerging among seniors – an increasing number are turning to cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. However, along with this rise in cannabis use among older adults, there has also been a notable uptick in the number of seniors ending up in emergency departments due to accidental cannabis poisoning.
Recent research has shed light on this phenomenon, indicating that seniors are among the fastest-growing age group in Canada to embrace cannabis consumption. This surge in usage is evident in the statistics, with over 400,000 seniors reporting cannabis use in the past three months in 2019, a significant increase from just 40,000 seniors in 2012. The trend appears to be continuing, highlighting the growing acceptance and adoption of cannabis among the elderly population.
One such senior, 80-year-old Bob McBride from the Ottawa Valley, shared his experience with cannabis, using it occasionally for both leisure and pain management. McBride’s story reflects a common sentiment among seniors who find cannabis to be a beneficial and enjoyable addition to their lives. Despite the positive aspects, there is a concerning trend of seniors experiencing cannabis-related emergencies, prompting calls for enhanced education and guidelines on safe cannabis consumption for this demographic.
Dr. Nathan Stall, a geriatrician at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, recounted a case where an elderly patient presented at the ER with symptoms resembling a severe medical condition, only to later be diagnosed with cannabis poisoning. This alarming scenario underscores the importance of understanding the risks associated with cannabis use, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable to adverse effects.
While cannabis use among older Canadians remains relatively low compared to other age groups, the increase in cannabis-related ER visits serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential dangers. Experts emphasize the need for tailored education and support to help seniors navigate the complexities of cannabis consumption safely and responsibly.
