CBD Benefits For Seniors

Introduction

In the last few years, the connection between cannabidiol or CBD and seniors’ health has grown much stronger.

According to a recent study by Remedy Review, nine percent of seniors have tried using CBD for health-related reasons, and 51 percent of seniors reported improved quality of life after trying it.

While the medicinal properties benefit individuals of all adult age groups, it’s particularly beneficial for seniors because it can help treat many common ailments experienced by this demographic.

CBD or Medical Marijuana?

If you’re a senior considering using cannabis for medical purposes, you may be wondering which derivative is right for you: CBD or THC?

While medical marijuana contains THC, the psychoactive compound extracted from cannabis, purely CBD products do not. They only have cannabidiol (CBD), a compound with many of the same medicinal properties of THC but without the psychoactive components.

Potential cannabis consumers in the U.S. first need to understand their state’s laws regarding CBD and THC products. Each state has its own laws regulating recreational and medical use of THC and purchasing CBD products.

Besides legal considerations, you’ll also want to consider the associated side effects of both product types. Due to the psychoactive nature of THC, many seniors opt for CBD instead.

Common Uses for CBD Among Seniors

As previously mentioned, CBD can help treat numerous ailments and conditions that many people experience as they age. For seniors, common reasons to try CBD include:

Better Sleep

As you age, it becomes more difficult to achieve deep sleep for extended periods. According to the Sleep Foundation, people over the age of 60 are more likely to experience insomnia.

Studies show that CBD may help improve sleep quality by interacting with the endocannabinoid system and addressing the root issue behind your insomnia.

Chronic Pain and Arthritis

Nearly 23 percent of adults in the U.S. have arthritis. Since there is no known cure for the condition, doctors advice those with arthritis to do what they can to alleviate the symptoms and slow down the progression.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, there isn’t enough research to prove CBD helps treat arthritis, but animal studies and anecdotal reports show promise regarding the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD. For that reason, many seniors take CBD for relief from pain caused by arthritis and other chronic pain.

Appetite Stimulation

Loss of appetite is a common health hazard among seniors. According to the National Institutes of Health, “The physiological changes that occur with aging that can impair appetite include changes to the digestive system, hormonal changes, disease, pain, changes to the sense of smell, taste and vision, and a decreased need for energy.” Plus, there are psychosocial factors that impact appetite among seniors as well.

It’s widely known that marijuana gives you the “munchies,” and CBD may increase appetite as well.

Recommended CBD Products

CBD products come in various forms. So, before you head to the store or check out suppliers online, decide on the form that you find the most appealing. The forms best suited for seniors include:

• Oils and tinctures

• Creams and lotions

• Capsules and pills

• Edibles

When buying CBD, keep in mind that these products are unregulated, making it essential to choose reputable brands with products that are third-party tested. To make your search easier, you can find high-quality CBD from various brands at CBD Choice.

You’ll also want to get to know CBD product labels and proper dosages. This article from Healthline can help you understand CBD packaging and terminology and how to find reputable products.

For starters, you should understand the difference between full-spectrum CBD, broad-spectrum CBD, and CBD isolate; these terms differentiate products based on which compounds from the cannabis product are present.

Experimentation with CBD

If you’re a senior looking for pain relief, improved sleep, or help to relax, CBD may make a big difference. Though not everyone experiences the same effects of CBD, it has helped countless seniors manage chronic pain and other conditions that come with age. After doing a little research into CBD safety and the products available, don’t be afraid to experiment to find what works for you and your lifestyle.

About Theresa Duncan

Originally from Detroit, MI, Theresa has been offering health and fitness advice for the last 30 years while working as an engineer. She decided to turn her passion into a profession, and finds nothing more satisfying than helping others reach their health and fitness goals.