By Survey Data Shows Rising Use
More than 1 in 5 older adults have consumed cannabis during the past year, according to federal survey data compiled by the University of Michigan. According to its 2026 annual report, nearly 22 percent of Americans between the ages of 55 and 65 used cannabis within the previous 12 months. That’s the highest percentage ever reported by the survey.
Fifteen percent of older adults say that they consumed a cannabis product within the past 30 days. Four percent of older respondents also said that they have consumed products derived from hemp. The survey’s findings are consistent with those from AARP and others reporting rising rates of cannabis use among older adults and seniors.
Expert Commentary on Health Needs
Commenting on the findings, NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: “It is not surprising that a growing percentage of adults consider cannabis to be a viable option in their later years. Many older adults struggle with pain, anxiety, sleep disturbances and other conditions that can be effectively mitigated by cannabis.”
Armentano added, “Many older adults are also aware of the litany of serious adverse side-effects associated with available prescription drugs, like opioids or sleep aids, and they perceive medical cannabis to be a viable and potentially safer alternative.”
Comparison With Other Age Groups
Among middle-aged adults (those between the ages of 35 and 50), about 30 percent of respondents acknowledged having used cannabis during the past year, according to the report. That percentage has held steady for the past several years.
Separate survey data published in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health determined that most older adults hold positive perceptions about cannabis, and many studies show that marijuana products are typically associated with quality of life improvements and reduced prescription drug use among seniors.
