Cannabis Use Among Canadians Aged 55–65 Jumped After Legalization | Research

The takeaway

Cannabis use among Canadian adults aged 55–65 significantly increased from 19% before legalization (2018) to 25% after (2019), with many using it for health reasons — highlighting the need for age-specific education about interactions with medications.

Geriatricians, family physicians, pharmacists, and adults aged 55+ considering cannabis use alongside existing medications.

What the researchers found

Past 12-month cannabis use among 55–65-year-olds significantly increased from 19.3% (2018, pre-legalization) to 24.5% in 2019 (first year post-legalization) and continued rising. A substantial proportion used cannabis to manage physical or mental health conditions.

Why it matters

Adults aged 55–65 are more likely to take prescription medications, making cannabis-drug interactions a real concern. The rapid increase in use post-legalization among this age group means healthcare providers need to proactively ask older patients about cannabis use.

The numbers in context

18,177 total adults aged 55–65 surveyed. 4,119 past-year cannabis consumers. Use increased from 19.3% (2018) to 24.5% (2019). Significant increase (p < 0.001). Substantial health-motivated use reported.

How the study worked

Repeat cross-sectional survey of Canadian adults aged 55–65 (n=18,177 total, n=4,119 cannabis consumers) across 2018–2021 survey waves, spanning pre- and post-legalization of non-medical cannabis in Canada.

What this study cannot tell us

Self-reported use — may still underestimate true prevalence. Repeat cross-sectional design (different people each wave), so cannot track individual changes. Cannot determine if new users are first-time users or returning after years of non-use. Canadian-specific.

How to read the evidence

Large representative survey (18,177 participants) spanning pre- and post-legalization with clear temporal analysis.

When this study was published

Published 2025, data from 2018–2021.

The bigger picture

Legalization doesn't just affect young people — older adults are among the fastest-growing cannabis user demographics. With more chronic conditions and medications, this group may face unique risks and benefits that standard cannabis education doesn't address.

Questions still open

Are healthcare providers screening older adults for cannabis use post-legalization? What specific drug interactions are most relevant for this age group? Are older adults accessing regulated products or unregulated sources?

Common questions

Why are more older adults using cannabis after legalization?

Legalization likely reduced stigma, improved access, and increased awareness of potential health benefits. Many older adults report using cannabis for pain, sleep, and mental health — conditions common in this age group.

Should older adults worry about cannabis and their medications?

Yes — cannabis can interact with many common medications including blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, and some antidepressants through CYP450 enzyme interactions. Always inform your pharmacist and doctor about cannabis use.

Read the original research

Cannabis Consumption Among Adults Aged 55-65 in Canada, 2018-2021.

Journal of drug issues, 55(1), 33-49

View on PubMed ↗Publisher’s paper ↗

Citation

Wadsworth, Elle; Cristiano, Nick; Gabrys, Robert; Renard, Justine; Hammond, David. (2025). Cannabis Consumption Among Adults Aged 55-65 in Canada, 2018-2021.. Journal of drug issues, 55(1), 33-49. https://doi.org/10.1177/00220426231190022