Despite what the Feds think, marijuana is becoming more popular for the 60+ crowd
While Gen Z is known for drinking less and embracing California sober, a surprising trend is emerging: older adults—particularly Baby Boomers and Gen Xers—are increasingly turning to cannabis. But this shift isn’t about mainly about chasing a high. It’s about wellness, pain relief, and safer alternatives to traditional medications.
With nearly 73 million Baby Boomers now over the age of 60, and Gen X not far behind, the cannabis industry is paying attention. This demographic—once largely cautious or even skeptical about marijuana—is now exploring it for relief from chronic pain, arthritis, insomnia, and even to enhance intimacy and mental well-being.
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Many older adults are also rethinking their relationship with alcohol. For decades, a glass of wine or a cocktail was the go-to way to unwind or spark connection. But concerns about alcohol’s impact on sleep, liver health, and especially balance, which can increase fall risk, have led many seniors to explore cannabis as a gentler, more functional alternative. For some, low-dose cannabis enhances relaxation and intimacy without the grogginess or safety risks alcohol can bring, offering a more mindful way to unwind.
“We’re seeing more older patients who are interested in cannabis as part of a broader wellness plan,” said Dr. Leslie Mendoza Temple, Medical Director of Integrative Medicine at NorthShore University HealthSystem in Illinois. “They’re not interested in getting high—they want to manage symptoms and maintain independence.”
A 2020 study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that nearly one in five adults over 60 had used cannabis in the past year, most often for medical reasons such as pain, sleep disorders, or anxiety. The majority reported that cannabis was helpful and caused few side effects.
Unlike opioids, which can be addictive and carry significant risks—especially for seniors—cannabis is generally considered safer when used under medical supervision. Low-dose edibles, CBD tinctures, and topical creams are among the most popular products for this age group, offering a controlled experience tailored to wellness needs.
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The benefits go beyond physical relief. Many older adults say cannabis helps reduce stress, improve sleep quality, and even rekindle intimacy—an area often overlooked in traditional medicine but vital for emotional health as people age.
“Today’s older adults are more proactive about their health,” said Dr. Carrie D. Jones, a geriatric specialist in Denver. “They want options that work with their bodies, not against them. Cannabis is becoming one of those options.”
As legislation evolves and stigma fades, expect more Boomers and Gen Xers to explore cannabis—not to escape life, but to better enjoy it. With careful use and medical oversight, marijuana may become one of the defining wellness tools of the next aging generation. Now if just the federal government will see the national trends.
