Having good health can ensure independence, productivity, and security for our senior community, however, millions struggle every day with chronic disease, mental health issues, and impactful falls. With approximately 80% of older Americans having at least one chronic disease and 77% having at least two, a carefully scripted course of prescription medication is being currently balanced by most seniors. Chronic diseases actually account for about 75% of healthcare costs, leading to burdensome medical expenses and reoccurring pharmaceutical bills.
One in four American seniors suffers from some form of mental disorder including anxiety, depression, dementia, and more. Substance abuse problems in older adults are expected to double to five million by 2020. Untreated mental health issues and substance abuse significantly increase the risk of poor health, cascading symptoms and illnesses, and a higher rate of suicide. Americans over the age of 85 have the highest suicide rate of any age group.
CBD may offer a wide scope of health and therapeutic benefits that can enhance senior living, providing the independence and security our elderly community needs.
CBD HEALTH BENEFITS FOR SENIORS
CBD may offer significant health benefits for seniors, addressing the symptoms of numerous chronic illnesses while providing a different pathway to treatment. While a lot of clinical research still needs to be completed, the preclinical and anecdotal data showcase promising results for senior health.
- Joint and bone health: CBD may offer protective properties that regulate bone metabolism, preventing age-related bone loss. Preclinical research has displayed encouraging results with CBD enhancing fracture healing rates while stimulating activity in the osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation. The potential anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may relieve the pain and stiffness of arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other chronic joint diseases. Clinical research has discovered encouraging results with alleviating chronic pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Neurological health: The antioxidant-rich nature of CBD may deliver neuroprotective properties that may aid in age-related memory loss. Preclinical data has also shown promising therapeutic potential for mitigating the symptoms of dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and more. CBD may be a cerebroprotective agent offering potential stroke prevention while defending against permanent brain damage after a stroke has occurred.
- Cardiovascular health: Heart disease is the leading cause of death, making cardiovascular health a significant priority. With 90% of Americans over the age of 55 at risk for hypertension, CBD may offer lowered blood pressure benefits when combined with a healthy diet and active lifestyle. The encouraging anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may offer a therapeutic advantage for those suffering from congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, as well as myocardial infarctions.
- Ocular health: The data regarding CBD and ocular health is currently very minimal. However, the available research showcase potential benefits for age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
- Digestive and gastrointestinal health: With a higher risk of stomach lining, kidney, and liver damage due to long-term NSAID use, seniors have a lot to navigate in regards to digestive health. Many digestive health issues are often caused by medication intake including opioids and high blood pressure medication. CBD may offer an alternative pathway to treatment that doesn’t include the serious side effects that impact digestive and gastrointestinal health. The potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of CBD may offer relief for chronic conditions like IBS, Crohn’s, and many more.
- Mental and emotional health: The encouraging anti-anxiety and stress-relieving benefits of CBD may offer long-term support for seniors experiencing mental health issues. By replenishing vital mood regulators that work within the endocannabinoid system, CBD may offer an alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals that carry significant side effects. CBD may also improve sleep cycles by increasing melatonin and serotonin levels in the central nervous system.
- Skin, hair, and nail health: CBD has a comprehensive composition of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and linoleic acid. These nutrient-dense components may offer restorative support for skin, hair, and nails. The encouraging anti-inflammatory benefits of CBD may provide relief for chronic skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and more.
CBD SIDE EFFECTS FOR SENIORS
CBD mirrors the same chemical compounds that are found within our body. This natural alternative is generally well-tolerated but rare cases of symptoms have been reported. CBD users may experience dry mouth, fatigue, and change of appetite. A recent survey reported that nearly three in four seniors didn’t experience any side effects after trying CBD, with the most prevalent side effect being dry mouth. Symptoms may be a cause of improper dosage, your body adapting to the product, or the wrong method of delivery. Some IBS users require non-tincture formats while those with a histamine-intolerance may react to full-spectrum products. Everyone is different and can experience different reactions to CBD. Self-discovery and experimentation is a large part of this process.
CBD DRUG INTERACTIONS FOR SENIORS
CBD is similar to grapefruit and watercress, temporarily blocking the cytochrome P450 enzymes that are responsible for metabolizing over 60% of pharmaceuticals. With these enzymes blocked, the dosage of certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can be drastically impacted leading to significant, adverse side effects. Since the majority of seniors rely on prescription medication, it is crucial to speak to your healthcare provider before trying CBD.
A recent survey from Forbes reported that nearly half of people using CBD products have stopped taking traditional medication. The anecdotal data is quite encouraging, showing promising results with this natural, alternative pathway to treatment.
START YOUR JOURNEY TO HEALTH AND WELLNESS TODAY
We always recommend conducting your own research regarding the items you decide to ingest. CBD may offer numerous health and therapeutic benefits for the older adults in our community. Please speak to your healthcare professional prior to purchasing CBD. If you have any questions regarding CBD for seniors, please contact us!