Medicinal Cannabis for Older Adults: Benefits, Risks and Access in Australia

As Australia’s population ages, there is growing interest among older Australians in medicinal cannabis as a treatment for age-related health conditions. From managing chronic pain to seeking relief from sleep disturbances and anxiety, many older adults are exploring cannabis as an option where traditional treatments may have fallen short. 

A recent article from The Guardian highlighted this emerging demographic shift, noting an increase in cannabis curiosity among adults aged 65 and over. While community attitudes are softening and medicinal access has expanded, it’s essential to understand both the potential benefits and the risks, and to separate emerging evidence from anecdote. 

At Biortica Agrimed, we are committed to helping Australians navigate this landscape with science-backed education, high-quality, legally compliant products, and strong alignment with the TGA framework for medicinal cannabis access. 

Why Are Older Australians Exploring Medicinal Cannabis? 

There are several factors driving this increased interest in cannabis among older Australians: 

  • Persistent chronic health conditions: Conditions such as osteoarthritis, neuropathy, and insomnia are more common with age, and some patients are seeking alternatives to long-term opioid or sedative use. 
  • Changing attitudes: As stigma around cannabis decreases, many older adults feel more comfortable exploring previously taboo options—especially when recommended by a healthcare provider. 
  • Access and regulation: Since the legalisation of medicinal cannabis in Australia in 2016, patients can access cannabis legally via prescription under the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) Special Access Scheme and Authorised Prescriber pathway. 

 

What Does the Research Say? 

While anecdotal reports are common, it’s critical to look at published, peer-reviewed studies when discussing cannabis and older adults. Here’s what we know so far: 

  1. Chronic Pain Management

A 2020 systematic review published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that medicinal cannabis may provide modest benefits for chronic pain in adults. However, the study also noted considerable variation in results and emphasised the need for further high-quality trials.
Source: Fitzcharles et al., 2020 – BJCP 

  1. Sleep Disturbances

Cannabis has been investigated for its effects on sleep. A 2022 observational study published in Frontiers in Psychiatryfound that some patients reported improved sleep with cannabis use, particularly formulations containing cannabidiol (CBD). However, the study emphasised the variability of patient experiences and the importance of medical supervision.
Source: Suraev et al., 2022 – Front Psychiatry 

  1. Mental Health

CBD has been studied for its potential anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. A 2019 case series in The Permanente Journalobserved reduced anxiety and improved sleep in some patients using CBD. These results, however, are preliminary and should not replace existing treatments without medical advice.
Source: Shannon et al., 2019 – Perm J 

Risks and Considerations for Older Adults 

With any therapeutic substance, there are potential risks—especially among older adults who may be managing multiple medications or chronic conditions. Some of the most commonly cited concerns include: 

– Drug Interactions 

Cannabis, particularly CBD, may interact with common medications such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and statins. This underscores the importance of seeking professional medical advice before beginning cannabis therapy. 

– Cognitive Impairment and Dizziness 

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, can affect short-term memory, coordination, and cognition. These side effects may increase the risk of falls or confusion in elderly patients, particularly if high doses are consumed or if the patient is sensitive to THC. 

– Lack of Standardisation in the Illicit Market 

Older adults should be cautious of sourcing cannabis outside of the regulated medicinal system, where product potency, composition, and contaminants may pose significant health risks. All Biortica Agrimed products are ODC-licensed, TGA-compliant, and batch-tested for quality assurance. 

Safe and Legal Access Through the Australian System 

Medicinal cannabis can only be accessed legally in Australia via prescription. Doctors can apply through the Special Access Scheme (SAS-B). 

For older adults considering medicinal cannabis, the following best practices are recommended: 

  1. Consult Your GP or Specialist

    Your doctor can assess whether medicinal cannabis is appropriate, taking into account your health history, medications, and condition. 

  1. Start Low, Go Slow

    Older adults often respond well to low-dose products, particularly those that are CBD-dominant with minimal THC. Dose titration under supervision is essential. 

  1. Choose Licensed Products

    Use only legally prescribed products from approved Australian producers. This ensures product safety, accurate cannabinoid concentrations, and ongoing quality control. 

Final Thoughts 

Cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but for some older Australians, it may offer meaningful support when prescribed safely and appropriately. As the research evolves and regulatory frameworks continue to mature, Biortica Agrimed remains focused on delivering trusted, local solutions backed by science and grown with care.