Senior Cannabis Use on the Rise in Massachusetts, Raising Both Opportunities and Concerns

Marijuana use among older adults is rapidly increasing in Massachusetts, presenting a unique set of opportunities for the cannabis industry and potential health considerations for individuals. While younger adults still represent the largest demographic of cannabis users, the rate of daily use among those aged 56 to 65 has grown approximately 70% between 2019 and 2023, according to a recent report from the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission [1].

A Shift in Consumption Patterns

For many seniors, cannabis is being embraced as an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals for managing conditions like pain and sleep disturbances. Roberta Brodin, a 71-year-old retired Quincy resident, reports using 40 to 50 milligrams of cannabis edibles, tinctures, and flower daily to manage pain and anxiety, preferring it to prescribed sedatives and pain pills [2]. Beverly Moran, a 70-year-old retired law professor, found relief from chronic pain after moving to Massachusetts and obtaining a medical marijuana card [2].

Economic Impact on the Cannabis Industry

This demographic shift is proving beneficial for dispensaries, providing a growing market segment. Data from the analytics firm Headset indicates that baby boomers have the highest average order value among cannabis buyers in 2023 [2]. MariMed Inc., the owner of Betty’s Eddies, projects a more than 90% increase in senior sales across its three Massachusetts dispensaries this year compared to last year [2]. Retailers like Redi have seen the percentage of customers aged 65 and over roughly double since opening in 2021 [2]. The Green Lady Dispensary on Nantucket reports seniors as a key part of their regular customer base, particularly during the off-season [2].

Navigating Regulations and Access

The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission oversees both medical and adult-use marijuana, with regulations available for review [4]. The Commission is currently seeking feedback on worker safety issues and considering a potential license freeze [1]. The line between medical and recreational use is becoming increasingly blurred, with some medical treatment centers closing and a decline in medical marijuana revenues and patient enrollment between 2021 and 2025 [2].

Health Considerations and Expert Advice

Despite the growing acceptance, healthcare professionals caution that increased potency and a lack of medical consultation pose potential health risks for seniors. Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a physician at Massachusetts General Hospital, notes that retail workers may recommend doses that are too high, highlighting a necessitate for improved patient education [2]. Emergency room visits related to cannabis use among adults 50 and older have risen over 300% between 2016 and 2023 [2]. A 2024 University of Michigan survey found that only 56% of monthly cannabis users over 50 discuss its use with their healthcare providers [2].

Looking Ahead

As cannabis legalization expands and becomes more normalized, the trend of increased senior use is likely to continue. Continued education, responsible product labeling, and open communication between patients and healthcare providers will be crucial to ensuring safe and beneficial outcomes for older adults exploring cannabis as a therapeutic option.