Substance Use and Addiction
Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Adults
Evidence is limited with regard to the potential benefits and harms of cannabis use, especially among older adults who often face unique physical and socioeconomic circumstances that may influence their response to cannabis. Physiological changes that impact sleep, mobility, diet, exercise, and overall quality of life, along with issues such as polypharmacy and cognitive decline are all confounding factors in the effects and response of cannabis use in this population.
Older adults, have a higher lifetime prevalence of use and past year use of cannabis than any generation that precedes them (Simoni-Wastila & Yang, 2006). This increased lifetime exposure, coupled with the recent legalization of non-medical cannabis use in Canada and subsequent increase in public interest, has driven the need for health professionals to be aware of the most recent research on the use of cannabis for medical and non-medical purposes.
Tools for Seniors and Families:
Tools for Clinicians:

Canadian Guidelines on Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Adults PDF
The goal of our clinical guidelines is to provide guidance to clinicians on preventing the development of Cannabis Use Disorder CUD and optimally assessing and treating older adults who have developed such a disorder.

Online Resources for Cannabis Use Disorder
This list is designed to help primary health care & clinical care providers assess and discuss with persons aged 65 or older, the potential risks and benefits of taking cannabis.

Canadian Guidelines on Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Adults
Canadian Geriatrics Journal, March 2020
CCSMH Webinar: Canadian Guidelines on Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Adults
Learn about CCSMH's Guidelines on Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Adults on detailing the evidence and best practice recommendations for the prevention, assessment and treatment of cannabis use disorder among older adults.