ACUTE EFFECTS OF EDIBLE CANNABIS FOR OLDER ADULTS: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE NEUTRAL
2024

Effects of Edible Cannabis on Older Adults

Sample size: 234 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Bryan Angela, Skrzynski Carillon, Stanger Madeline, Giordano Gregory, Lervick Dana, Broyhill Tatum, Tracy Brian

Primary Institution: University of Colorado Boulder

Hypothesis

What are the acute effects of edible cannabis on balance, mood, and memory in older adults?

Conclusion

Older adults using cannabis experienced balance impairment but also significant pain relief and increased subjective intoxication.

Supporting Evidence

  • Participants averaged 70.46 years old.
  • Balance impairment was observed from pre to 60 minutes post cannabis use.
  • Pain relief was significant from pre to 60 minutes post cannabis use.
  • Higher THC concentrations in blood were linked to greater pain decreases.
  • Subjective intoxication increased significantly after cannabis use.
  • Higher THC in blood was associated with greater intoxication.
  • Higher CBD in blood was associated with lower intoxication.
  • Few significant differences were found in memory and cognitive tasks.

Takeaway

This study looked at how eating cannabis affects older people, finding that it can help with pain but might make them feel unsteady.

Methodology

Participants were recruited and assessed for balance, mood, and memory before and after consuming different edible cannabis products.

Participant Demographics

Average age 70.46 years, with 175 participants wanting to use cannabis and 59 not wanting to use it.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1242

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