If you think the recent rise in CBD use is only among younger people, think again. More and more older adults are turning to CBD to ease chronic symptoms and support overall health.
This shift has been helped by the gradual removal of the stigma around cannabis and cannabis-derived products, and by more GPs and doctors prescribing CBD for age-related conditions.
Read on to learn why many seniors in the UK are choosing CBD oil. A few searches will turn up plenty of resources to help you learn more and find products that fit your needs.
1. Chronic Pain Relief
As we age, the chances of developing conditions that cause chronic pain rise. Issues like neuropathy, arthritis, osteoporosis, and fibromyalgia can create long-lasting pain that affects quality of life.
Many older people rely on prescription painkillers, which often come with unpleasant side effects. CBD may offer a natural alternative. Because it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system—a network that helps regulate pain—CBD can provide meaningful relief with few side effects.
2. Neurodegenerative Diseases
Some evidence suggests CBD could help treat and possibly prevent neurological problems. In a 2011 study looking at Alzheimer’s, Australian researchers Tim Karl and Carl Group found that CBD encouraged the growth of brain cells and reduced memory loss and other declines in brain function.
This raises the possibility that CBD could be useful for other degenerative conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s, though more research is needed to confirm these ideas.
3. Healthier Bones
Getting older increases the risk of bone and muscle problems. As strength and balance decline, falls become more likely and fractures can take longer to heal.
CBD may help strengthen bones and speed recovery from fractures. A 2015 study in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research reported that CBD strengthened bones and helped fractures heal faster.
4. Anxiety
Anxiety and depression can worsen with age. CBD has become a popular option for people looking for relief from these symptoms. While more studies are needed, many people say CBD has helped them feel calmer and more balanced.
High anxiety often leads to insomnia. Many users report that low doses of CBD help them fall asleep and stay asleep longer, and some research supports these claims. Some studies also suggest hemp-derived products may be helpful in managing anxiety and stress.
5. Promotes Appetite
The endocannabinoid system, which CBD affects, plays a role in appetite. Older adults often experience reduced appetite and may struggle to eat enough nutritious food.
Some studies show CBD can stimulate appetite, which is reported as a common side effect of the cannabinoid.
As the stigma around cannabis fades, compounds like CBD are being shown to have real health benefits. CBD has helped people with a variety of chronic conditions, and more seniors are choosing it to manage long-term symptoms. This trend will likely continue as CBD becomes better understood.
Written by Jamie Richardson