Adult 65+ Cannabis Use

Cannabis (weed, marijuana, pot) is legal to use in Vermont if you are over 21.

Cannabis can affect everyone differently. You may have a different reaction than others depending on the cannabis product, THC level and your health conditions.

As you age, your metabolism changes, meaning you may feel the effects of THC (the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis) more strongly.

Talk with your healthcare provider about your cannabis use, health risks, alternatives and for support in reducing your cannabis use or quitting.

On this page:

Cannabis & Your Health

Your mind, body and brain can all be impacted by cannabis use. The extent of this impact is not fully known, but there are some things we do know.

Interactions with Medications

Side effects of prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies can become more intense when mixed with cannabis.

You may want to avoid cannabis use if your medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness or trouble concentrating.

Memory & Decision-Making

Cannabis can impact your memory. 

Long term cannabis use can lead to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with decision-making. 

Coordination & Falls

Cannabis can increase your risk of injury. It impacts your balance and coordination, which can lead to more falls.

Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and increases your risk of getting into a crash.

Mental Health

Using cannabis to cope with anxiety or stress may actually make you feel worse, especially if you are using higher THC doses.

Cannabis can increase your risk of developing mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression and psychosis or making them worse.

Lung Health

Smoke from cannabis contains many of the same toxins and chemicals found in tobacco smoke and inhaling it can increase your risk of developing lung problems.

The additives, tools and high temperatures used for vaping cannabis may expose you to toxic substances, which may cause serious lung injury.

Dependence

Using cannabis frequently and in high THC doses, may increase your risk of developing dependence on cannabis.

If you want to quit or are having a hard time quilting, VT Helplink is available 24 hours a day, every day. Call or text "LINK" to 802-565-5465 or visit VTHelplink.org.

Severe Reactions

Some people who use frequently and at high THC doses experience severe stomach pain, persistent nausea and uncontrolled vomiting. This is medically known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS).

If you experience these symptoms, seek care from a healthcare provider.

Benefits of Reducing Your Use, Quitting or Not Using Cannabis

If you reduce your use of cannabis or quit, you may notice improvements in your health.

  • Reduced stress or anxiety, especially if you currently use frequently and at high THC doses
  • Better concentration, attention, memory and coordination - both long and short term
  • Improved lung health
  • Reduced risk of dependence and habit formation
  • Reduced risk of severe reactions like intense stomach pain, persistent nausea and uncontrolled vomiting

Tips to Reduce Your Cannabis Use

Consider a balanced approach to your cannabis use.

  • Start with lower doses of THC and wait before taking more. It can take longer than you expect for you to feel the full effects of THC depending on if you are smoking, vaping or taking an edible.
  • Reduce smoking and vaping to reduce lung health risks.
  • If you use cannabis every day, take some skip days or plan occasional periods of longer breaks.

Try Other Ways to Relax or Deal with Stress

Whether you are using cannabis for symptom relief, like stress, or to relax, there are many alternatives that can be just as effective.

  • Take a break from scrolling or watching too much negative media
  • Unwind with mindful breathing, meditation or stretching
  • Find time for exercise and a balanced diet
  • Connect with friends and family
  • Ask your health care providers for other ways to manage your symptoms
  • Talk with someone who could help

Get Support to Help You Reduce or Quit Your Cannabis Use

Reducing your cannabis use or quitting is not always easy, but there are people who can help!

VT Helplink alcohol and drug support center logo
  • Talk to your healthcare providers about your use, alternatives and tips for quitting
  • If you want to quit or are having a hard time quilting, you can talk to a support specialist at VT Helplink. They are available 24 hours a day, every day. Call or text "LINK" to 802-565-5465 or visit VTHelplink.org.
    • Find local support groups
    • Get connected with healthcare professionals
    • It's free and confidential
  • If you are experiencing a crisis, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  • LGBTQ+ support is available through the LGBT National Help Center and Trans Lifeline.

 

Contact Us

Substance Use Programs (DSU)

Vermont Department of Health
280 State Drive
Waterbury, VT 05671-8340

802-651-1550
[email protected]

Topics:
Alcohol/Drug Use
Last Updated: