Marijuana use among community-dwelling older adults: A population-based study

ObjectivesThere is a paucity of population-level data on marijuana use and mental health and functioning in older adults.MethodsWe analyzed cross-sectional data (n = 910) from a well-characterized cohort, the Monongahela-Youghiogheny Healthy Aging Team (MYHAT) study. MYHAT is an age-stratified random sample of the population age 65 years and older from a small-town in the USA. Half the sample was female and half were over 75 (Mean age = 77). Most participants were non-Hispanic White. Marijuana use was assessed by self-report and symptoms of mood disorders were screened using the modified Centers for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder screener. Cognition was assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination and a neuropsychological test battery; functioning using the OARS Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living; and overall assessment using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR (R)).ResultsOne in five MYHAT participants had a history of marijuana use and 5% reported recent use, primarily for pain (41%) and recreation/relaxation (37%). Recent use was associated with cigarette and alcohol use, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and impairments in attention.ConclusionsTwenty-percent of community-dwelling older adults living in a US state where recreational marijuana use is illegal had a history of marijuana use. Recent marijuana use was less common but, consistent with prior research, associated with other substance use and poorer mental health. One in five adults over 65 who live in a state without legal recreational marijuana laws have a history of marijuana use. Adults over 65 with recent marijuana use are more likely to smoke cigarettes and drink alcohol. Adults over 65 use marijuana for pain relief and recreation/relaxation. As with younger adults, recent marijuana use in people over 65 is associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety.