Is Medical Marijuana Right For Seniors?
As marijuana becomes more mainstream in the country, both recreational and medical use it is appearing to have a benefit for an unlikely group, the elderly. They are taking it in a pill form to relieve pain. What’s unique about this demographic is that they don’t appear the type to partake in what is mostly popular amongst young people. Most of THE seniors which do take drug have never smoke a cigarette in their life.
So what is at the core of this recent pain relieving trend?
Broth Brown is a 98 years old whom resides in a assisted living facility in Northeast Ohio. She is in always a state of extreme pain due to her condition of neuropathy. She was recently introduced to medical marijuana in the beginning of 2018 and is now experiencing less pain than ever. In addition, Broth has weaned off a powerful opioid morphine, which she no longer experiences its side effect. The family and nursing staff continues to see improvement in not only her daily health but the 98 year olds quality of life.
What’s random about the use of medical marijuana in older adults is that it was labeled their whole life as an illicit drug. However, when people in their 80’s and 90’s experience constant pain they will entertain anything to reduce it. Often it’s the extreme suffering that has a an impact on the health of a patient and if we could alter that slightly they may be able to enjoy life that much more.
Dr. David Knox, a cardiologist in Philadelphia, PA addressed the topic of medical cannabis for seniors. He said that the bodies of older people naturally have undergone more wear and tear then the typical young adult. Muscles and bones which have been damaged from lifelong extreme use and injuries are now projecting excruciating pain. It’s for this reason that the demographic of older seniors have become the greatest benefactor of medical marijuana legalization.
In comparison to opiods the drug is quite unique in that it shows little to no side effects. It addresses most of the common problems like arthritis, degenerative joint, and degenerative disc disease. Chronic pain is the primary reason why a physician would prescribe the use of cannabis. With the right dosage it takes care of the pain issue without any impact on the seniors health. In contrast with over the counter anthismemens and other pain relievers there are multiple components of the plant which benefit the patient. It is for this reason that many elderly patients are turning to cannabis therapy.
Are there any forms of cannabis that are helpful but not potent?
There is an element of the plant which is quite beneficial to all adults. CBD or Cannabidiol is one of at least 113 active cannabinoids identified in cannabis. It’s a major phytocannabinoid accounting for up to 40% of the plants extract. Just a small dosage can provide relief for neuroinflammation, epilepsy, oxidative injury, vomiting , nausea, anxiety and nervousness. In fact it could be used as pain reliever for continuous pain which is often generated by daily stress. Rather than going for the ibuprofen try incorporating CBD into your diet. CBD oil is also referred to as hemp oil which is 100% safe.
With more and more research into cannabis medical professionals are becoming fascinated with its findings. Seniors who find themselves being recommended medical marijuana or safe hemp oil should welcome the idea with an open mind. Listen to the medical professional as to what to expect when taking the substance and what relief you should anticipate to see.
One of the overwhelming benefits is the reduction of opioid intake and disbursement. Drugs like morphine have its place but better to be out of the house than in. Most cases where there was an opioid addiction it stemmed from a legitimate physicians prescription. It’s the months after the surgery that patients cannot wean off the drug. Cannabis is an all natural supplement that brings little to no side effects.
The primary challenge for cannabis therapy is its association with marijuana that’s used in its illegal form. However it’s only natural that every good thing has a fall out. Making the drug more accessible to the nation may pose a greater risk to society. Secretary of State, Jeff Sessions is afraid of this dangerous fall out. He wants to make sure that recreational marijuana use is banned on the national level even though states have already permitted it. The topic is a hot one and both sides have a good argument. There are two uses of which should not be impacted by the law, marijuana for medical use as prescribed by a doctor and Cannabidiol. Always consult physician prior to any adjustment in your diet.
