CBD is … everywhere. Made from the cannabis plant but lacking psychoactive compounds, it has been used in everything from lotions to makeup to oils to cupcakes and everywhere in between. But is it a good choice for senior citizens? Or is it just new-aged snake oil?
This guide takes a look at CBD and how it affects senior citizens — here’s what we’ll cover inside:
- How does CBD affect the elderly?
- Is CBD oil good for senior citizens?
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic pain and inflammation
- Nausea and cancer treatments
- CBD oil for the elderly with dementia
- CBD oil side effects
How Does CBD Affect The Elderly?
We still need more research, especially when it comes to the long-term effects, but it seems that CBD affects the elderly about the same as it affects adults. Anxiety, depression, sleep, pain, inflammation, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, cancer treatment side effects, and several other conditions — CBD may help manage side effects associated with these conditions and improve physical and mental health outcomes.
As we’ll discover in a minute, some of these conditions are more common in the senior citizen community. In this case, CBD may be an attractive option for elderly people.
NOTE: CBD may interact negatively with some medications, and it’s not a safe choice for everyone. Talk with a doctor before making any changes to your health routine.
Is CBD Oil Good For Senior Citizens?
Plenty of us struggle with sleep, inflammation, pain, and countless other conditions. However, in the senior citizen community, some of these conditions are much more common. Luckily, there’s research that suggests CBD may help with common health conditions among the elderly. Here are a few of the potential health benefits of CBD for the elderly.
Sleep Disorders
Restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, chronic pain, and other conditions make it harder to sleep as we get older. Plus, as we age, we make less growth hormone, which plays a huge role in deep sleep and melatonin production. This means we’re more likely to experience fragmented sleep and wake more often throughout the night.
Some research suggests that CBD (especially indica-dominant strains) may aid in sleep and promote stress reduction, helping us fall asleep faster, and staying asleep longer. In which case, CBD may be a solid choice for senior citizens with disordered sleep.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
Things like joint pain, muscle aches, and those vague “aches and pains” become more common as we age. Unfortunately, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can be long-lasting, and painful. There are of course prescription medications to help treat these conditions.
But not everyone wants to take prescription medication. And some of us want a little extra boost to help enhance the effects of our medication.
That’s why some senior citizens take CBD — to help manage feelings of chronic pain and inflammation in the body. Best of all, there’s research to back it up. As a pain management alternative and natural treatment CBD has many benefits and less drawbacks than traditional pain medications.
Nausea and Cancer Treatments
Sadly, the older we get, the more likely we are to develop cancer. Cancer itself can cause lots of pain and inflammation, and aggressive cancer treatments can leave patients with residual pain and other unpleasant side effects like nausea.
Some people who undergo aggressive cancer treatment use CBD to help manage symptoms including reduced nausea and increased appetite. Plus, CBD may help with anxiety and depression, which may accompany a cancer diagnosis.
CBD Oil For Elderly With Dementia
Right now, there’s no evidence to suggest that CBD can improve dementia or slow its progression. But, CBD may help manage anxiety and agitation — both of which are part of dementia.
People with dementia may also experience sleep disturbances, mood regulation, inflammation, and discomfort. CBD may help manage these symptoms as well.
As always, talk with your doctor before introducing CBD into any health routine to make sure it’s a safe choice.
CBD Oil Side Effects in Senior Citizens
One of the things we love about CBD is that side effects aren’t common, and they’re usually mild, like dry mouth, fatigue, and drowsiness. But in some cases, people may experience diarrhea, headaches, and changes in appetite.
CBD may interact with certain medications, including:
- Blood thinners
- Thyroid medications
- Heart rhythm medications
- Seizure medications
- Narcotics and opioids
- Sedatives
Suppose you aren’t sure whether CBD will interact with the medications you already take; talk with your doctor. They can help you identify contraindications and whether CBD products are safe for you.
How Acknowledge CBD Products Stand Out
If you’re searching for a CBD brand that you can trust, look no further than Acknowledge.
Our full spectrum CBD tinctures and other products are carefully sourced on our sustainable farm in Maryland’s Pleasant Valley. Each product is processed naturally and made with only the highest quality ingredients. While many other CBD brands offer less-than-pure products, we say no to additives, pesticides, and other harmful ingredients.
Want to see for yourself? Check out our transparent COAs to see exactly what is in each of our products. Try our CBD line today and see and feel the Acknowledge difference.
The content provided by Acknowledge CBD is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or if you have any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this site. Reliance on any information provided by Acknowledge CBD is solely at your own risk.