RIDGE MANOR, Fla. — A new study suggests that cannabis use among seniors is at an all-time high.

Research published in the JAMA Internal Medicine Journal shows a significant increase in older adults using cannabis.

For many seniors, going to a cannabis dispensary is like picking up a prescription.

“You get it when and how much you need,” said Gary Stein, senior.

Gary Stein said he started using cannabis in high school and has used it on and off ever since.

“Since the 1970s, I guess that makes me an OG, or at least just an O” he said.

The now 68-year-old said he recently picked it back up for medical purposes. He goes to the dispensary as often as he needs to treat his chronic depression and pain.

“I rather use this than opiates or things of that sort. Even Tylenol eventually becomes toxic to your liver, whereas this is a much healthier alternative,” Stein said.

Stein isn’t alone. The number of seniors using marijuana is growing. According to a new study published in the JAMA Internal Medicine Journal— the number of seniors using cannabis has increased by 46% between 2021 and 2023. 

“I know a lot of senior citizens who are sick and tired of taking all the pills that their doctors are constantly prescribing for them and having to deal with all the side effects that a lot those pills cause and they prefer a natural solution,” Stein said.

Dr. Deepa Verma at Synergistiq Wellness has been a licensed medical marijuana prescriber for about 8 years.  She said she’s written thousands of prescriptions, and lately, a lot more for seniors.

“Because cannabis is more socially acceptable and with the legalization and people are just more open about seeking other ways to get healthy, they don’t want to be caught in that traditional health care system,” said Dr. Deepa Verma.

However, cannabis use remains federally illegal. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved a marketing application for cannabis for the treatment of any disease or condition. 

No matter how marijuana is used, the Centers for Disease Control said marijuana has brain, heart, lung and mental health risks and can cause cannabis use disorder or unintentional poisoning.

At home, Stein said he’s weighed other treatment options.  He believes cannabis is a great option for seniors wanting a natural remedy. 

“The best thing to do is to find out what is best for you. The dosage is up to you, and the method of use is up to you,” he said.

Now that Stein’s prescription is filled his chronic pain is manageable.

Researchers also found that people with multiple chronic conditions are more likely to use cannabis. 

The study said clinicians should consider screening and educating older patients about potential risks of cannabis use.