Why Are More Seniors Getting Medical Marijuana Cards in 2025?

Cannabis use among seniors has been on the rise for years. From 2015 to 2018, researchers observed an increase in use from 2.4% to 4.2% among individuals aged 65 and above. 

By 2023, the number had soared to roughly 7% of adults 65 and older using cannabis in the last month. Additionally, more seniors are getting medical cannabis cards to access plant-based relief for a variety of conditions. 

Why More Seniors Are Getting Medical Marijuana Cards in 2025

Medical cannabis for seniors has gained a lot of open traction recently. Since seniors are often on multiple medications (polypharmacy) or have several conditions, it’s important for them to clear these with their healthcare provider before starting cannabis or CBD. It’s why we see so many seniors get medical marijuana cards, even in states with legal recreational cannabis. 

As cannabis use becomes more common across the country, outdated stigmas around the plant have begun to fade. We also have more access to information about cannabis for seniors, helping the general population better understand the ways cannabis can help with a variety of complaints. 

For many seniors, getting a medical marijuana card can provide a pathway to a better quality of life with reduced pain, fewer medications, better sleep, and other benefits. 

What Health Conditions in Seniors Qualify for Medical Marijuana?

Qualifying conditions for medical cannabis cards vary from state to state. But as a general rule, most states with a medical cannabis infrastructure allow patients to obtain a card for certain forms of chronic pain, sleep disorders, and eating conditions associated with cancer treatment, among other conditions. 

According to Veriheal data, of all patients aged 55+ who signed up for a medical card through our system in 2025, 68% sought relief from chronic pain. Trouble sleeping came in as the second most common issue at 65% of applicants. Arthritis was the next most common condition at 45% of patients. 

Is Medical Marijuana Safe for Older Adults?

While there are many senior medical marijuana benefits, it’s important to look at the potential risks as well. While experts generally consider cannabis to be safe for older adults, there are some risks to be aware of. 

Researchers have linked cannabis to a higher rate of emergency department visits among older adults. Because tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can impair cognitive function and coordination, its use can potentially increase the risk of falls and other accidents. This, paired with the fact that the risk of falling increases with age, could potentially cause additional risks for seniors using cannabis. 

Senior cannabis users should also be aware that certain medications may negatively interact with cannabis use. Blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin®), for example, may increase the risk of bleeding when combined with cannabis. Seniors should always speak with their healthcare providers about the risks of combining cannabis with any medications they take. 

Cannabis use is also associated with dose-dependent, increased cardiovascular risks. Seniors with heart conditions should discuss potential risks with their doctors before seeking a medical cannabis card. 

Benefits of Medical Marijuana for the Senior Population

While there are some risks to be aware of, there are also many senior medical marijuana benefits. As we mentioned above, qualifying conditions include pain, sleep disorders, and even side effects of medical treatments like chemotherapy. 

According to our data, patients aged 55 and older overwhelmingly use cannabis for pain relief, at 83% of respondents. The second most common effect patients strive for is feeling relaxed, followed by similar descriptions like “happy/bliss,” and “calm/mellow.” Increased focus and better sleep are next, at 29% and 27%. 

We also have evidence that cannabis may have a positive impact on brain health, which aging patients may find beneficial. 

READ: Medical Cannabis for Older Patients: How Cannabis Therapy Can Benefit Senior Citizens

How Seniors Are Getting Certified in 2025

Obtaining a medical cannabis card has become easier over the years. Patients no longer have to visit an in-person doctor—a benefit that helps many seniors avoid unnecessary stress and discomfort. With companies like Veriheal, seniors can get a medical cannabis card from the comfort of their own homes. 

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To start the process, you can sign up to schedule an appointment with a licensed marijuana doctor. The initial appointment fee with Veriheal covers the consultation, physician copay, and medical evaluation. 

From there, you’ll have a consultation with a medical cannabis doctor to see if you are a good candidate for a medical card. If the doctor agrees that you would benefit from cannabis, you will receive a recommendation for a medical card. Depending on where you live, you can start shopping at dispensaries, or you will have to wait to receive your card in the mail before making any purchases. 

Already certified? Consider an expert, personalized consultation with a Veriheal professional to optimize your plan.

What Products Work Best for Seniors Using Cannabis?

The right cannabis products for seniors depend on many factors unique to each person’s conditions. But we can look at some trends from our Veriheal data to see what people over 55 are using the most often. 

According to our data, older patients tend to use flower (68%) and edibles (65%), the most popular product types, at about the same rate. About 34% of respondents use vaporizers, 23% use oils, 20% use CBD, and 17% use topicals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can seniors use medical marijuana?

Yes, in states where medical cannabis is legal, about one in five seniors use cannabis. Marijuana is generally safe for older adults, though there are some important considerations when looking at cannabis for elderly patients (e.g., dizziness, falls, blood pressure changes). Despite the potential risks, many seniors are finding relief for a variety of conditions with medical cannabis. 

Is cannabis safe for older adults?

Certain medications are not safe to mix with cannabis, and it can also raise the risk of accidents like falls, along with increased cardiovascular risks like bleeding if on blood thinners. These risks should be discussed with a healthcare professional before deciding whether cannabis is a good option. 

Why are more seniors using weed?

Cannabis has become more accessible over the years. We also have more research showcasing the benefits that medical cannabis can provide for seniors. With increased access to information, more and more seniors are deciding to try cannabis and finding it effective while minimizing potential side effects. 

What conditions qualify seniors for MMJ cards?

Qualifying conditions vary from state to state, but most include some form of chronic pain, sleep disorders, and side effects of cancer-related treatments. 

Can elderly patients use medical marijuana for pain?

Yes, elderly patients can use marijuana for pain. Chronic pain is the most common reason seniors use medical marijuana, including arthritis. 

Does Medicare cover medical marijuana?

No, Medicare does not cover medical cannabis. This is because cannabis is still considered a federally illegal substance. 

What’s the best cannabis product for seniors?

The best cannabis products for seniors depend on many factors, including age, physical health, symptoms, and more. According to Veriheal data, the most commonly used cannabis products for seniors are flower and edibles, followed by vape products and oils. Persons with airway or cardiovascular concerns should opt for non-inhalational routes.