PHOENIX — As demand for marijuana rises among older adults, two cannabis-based companies are introducing a new way for seniors to access products: user-friendly kiosks placed inside senior living communities.

The kiosks, developed through a partnership between LoveBud and Life Is Chill, are designed to simplify the ordering process and provide delivery within hours, targeting seniors who may struggle with smartphones or online platforms.

The kiosk interface allows users to browse products by category, including options tailored to seniors such as edibles and topicals.

“A lot of the elders don’t really want to smoke. They want to use an edible or topical,” Dana Lillestol, the Senior Education Advocate with Life is Chill, said while demonstrating the system.

The companies say the kiosks address common barriers older adults face with technology.

“The seniors have roadblocks, and we’re here to take away those roadblocks,” Lillestol said. “They’re struggling with technology, and they don’t know how to use their iPhone or their Android to go to a website for a dispensary and find what they need.”

While the LoveBud app offers a full browsing experience with posts and advertisements for tech-savvy users, the kiosks operate on what the companies call an “easy mode,” streamlining the process.

“It takes away the whole social side,” James Watkins, the CEO of Lovebud, said. “Some people don’t want to go through posts and videos; they just want to get their product.”

The kiosks also include a help feature that connects users directly to a live representative for assistance or medical-related questions.

In addition, the companies plan to introduce an educational portal to help users learn more about cannabis products, with the goal of eventually expanding access to personal devices like tablets and smartphones.

Two independent senior living facilities in the East Valley have already approved the kiosks, according to the companies. Watkins said adoption largely depends on whether properties allow residents to receive deliveries.

“As long as the property is okay with them actually receiving their medicine delivered to them, then there’s no problem,” Watkins said.

Once an order is placed, delivery is expected within hours. The app currently features products from more than 50 brands, including capsules, drinks, flower and CBD options.

The companies say limits on recreational and medical purchases still apply, and users must create an account before completing transactions through the app.

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