Cannabis use disorder may affect roughly one in nine older users, study estimates
A University of California San Diego study estimates that 11.4% of U.S. adults aged 65 and older who used cannabis in the past year met criteria for cannabis use disorder. The analysis used 2021–2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data from 21,189 older adults. Researchers note that older adults may face added risks from age-related body changes, chronic diseases, and prescription medication use.
The UC San Diego analysis drew on 2021–2024 national survey responses from 21,189 people aged 65 and older. About 8.9% reported past-year cannabis use, and 11.4% of that group met criteria for cannabis use disorder. Commonly endorsed issues included devoting substantial time to getting, consuming, or recovering from cannabis, and craving.
Most cases were mild (76%), with 20.1% moderate and 3.9% severe. Smoking was the leading method (65.8%), followed by edibles/drinks (40.5%) and vaping (15.4%). Nearly one-fifth said a physician had recommended some or all use. Using on at least 300 days was linked to nearly fourfold higher odds of the disorder.
As cannabis becomes more common among seniors, this estimate could prompt clinicians to ask about use and frequency, especially among those with mental illness, tobacco use, or other substance use. Older adults and their caregivers may benefit from clearer conversations about risks, medication interactions, and age-related vulnerabilities. It may also inform screening and early intervention, since most cases were mild. However, findings rely on survey data, so true societal impact remains uncertain.