New Study Reveals High Rate of Cannabis Use Among Michigan’s Older Adults
A recent University of Michigan poll has found that nearly 27% of Michigan residents aged 50 or older have used cannabis products containing THC at least once in the past year. This is a higher percentage compared to the 21% of people in the same age group across the United States who have used cannabis in the past year.
The poll, which was conducted online and via phone in February and March 2024, surveyed over 1,000 older adults in Michigan and 3,000 older adults in other states. The results suggest that Michigan’s older adults are more likely to use cannabis to treat medical conditions, with nearly half of those who use cannabis at least once a year reporting that they use it for this purpose.
Additionally, the poll found that 70% of those who have used cannabis in the past year reported using it to help them sleep, while 84% of those who use it monthly reported using it for this reason. However, the study also found that older adults who use cannabis at least monthly were more likely to report signs of dependence or addiction, such as needing to use more cannabis to feel the desired effects or experiencing decreased effects over time.
The findings highlight the need for more education and awareness about the risks associated with cannabis use, particularly among older adults who may be more susceptible to its effects. The poll’s lead researcher, Erin Bonar, Ph.D., an addiction psychologist and researcher at U-M, emphasized the importance of educating older adults about the potential risks of cannabis use, including impaired driving, interactions with medications, and addiction.
The poll’s results also suggest that Michigan’s older adults are more likely to use cannabis to treat medical conditions, which may be attributed to the state’s large and growing cannabis market. Michigan is the largest cannabis market in the United States by volume, and some cannabis companies in the state specifically target older adults with advertising campaigns promoting cannabis as a tool for pain management.
