How medical cannabis is assisting seniors in leading healthier lives in the UK

The older we get, the more our bodies seem to change in so many ways, and for many seniors, chronic pain is something that seems to become a way of life. Whether due to arthritis, back pain, or joint pain, these afflictions can make even the most mundane tasks feel like a battle. But one trend is becoming increasingly popular and providing relief for many older folks: Medical cannabis.

Once stigmatised and poorly understood, cannabis is now increasingly being seen as having the ability to help manage a variety of health issues, most significantly pain. This is especially true for older people in the UK, who are using cannabis more and more to improve their quality of life. Companies like Releaf are working to dismantle the stigma surrounding medical cannabis and educate people about its potential benefits. Let us get a closer look at the various ways that medical cannabis is helping seniors and how it is in the process of becoming a game-changer when it comes to senior health.

The rise of medical cannabis among seniors

The use of cannabis by seniors is not as new as it may at first seem. Rather, research shows that elderly people are smoking cannabis in order to ease every kind of affliction from pain to sleep disorders and even fear. More older adults are using cannabis today than ever before, and many of them are turning to cannabis for pain, according to a study released by AARP. Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in 2018, and usage continues to expand as more people become aware of its benefits.

Seniors are more likely to hold back from taking cannabis due to myths about its effects, yet the reality is that medical cannabis is a very effective and harmless remedy for several older patients. It offers an organic alternative to conventional drugs like opioids, with their heavy liabilities of addiction and drowsiness. Cannabis itself is often best tolerated and is able to achieve a range of therapeutic effects at no comparable risk.

How medical cannabis can help with pain

One of the main reasons that seniors are turning towards medical cannabis is because it can effectively treat pain. Pain is one of the most common ailments that afflicts elderly individuals, and it can be absolutely debilitating. Be it due to diseases like osteoarthritis, neuropathy, or just the overall wear and tear in the body, pain can restrict movement and be quite detrimental to the quality of life of an elderly individual.

Medical marijuana impacts the body's endocannabinoid system that ensures pain regulation, mood regulation, and other bodily functions. When endocannabinoid receptors are activated by marijuana, it has been found to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms and thus is an ideal medication for the majority of elderly patients suffering from chronic pain.

What are the strains that seniors prefer?

When choosing the appropriate strain of medical marijuana, remember that all marijuana is not created equal. There are a host of varying effects from the varying strains of cannabis, so choosing the right one for the patient's specific need is imperative. In the UK, there are certain varieties of medicinal cannabis strains that are available to individuals seeking relief from pain. The most common types of cannabis utilised are Indica and Sativa.

Indica strains produce a sedative and soothing effect. Indica strains are ideal for people who need help with pain management, muscle relaxation, and sleeping disorders. They can be highly beneficial for the older adults who are unable to sleep due to persistent pain or anxiety. Sativa strains are more energising and stimulating, though. They are typically recommended for elderly patients who need pain relief but do not need to feel drowsy or slow during the day. Sativa strains enhance mood and provide a boost of energy. For patients who are elderly and experience anxiety and pain, a hybrid strain is perhaps the best choice. Hybrids are part Indica and part Sativa and produce an even balance that alleviates pain as well as calms anxiety and brightens mood.

The role of Releaf in removing stigma

While the use of medical cannabis is gaining more popularity among the elderly in the UK, there is still a stigma to using it. The majority of individuals still associate cannabis with recreational or negative side effects, which makes things more difficult for some to relax about using it as a treatment. This is where businesses like Releaf are shattering the status quo.

Releaf is a UK-based organisation that is helping to reduce the stigma surrounding medical cannabis through education, support, and guidance for those interested in using cannabis to control their health. They offer numerous services, such as consultations with medical professionals, access to high-quality cannabis products, and education to help individuals learn how to integrate cannabis into their wellness regimen. By providing them with clear, concise information and tailored care, Releaf is enabling seniors to understand the world of medical cannabis and feel confident in their decision to incorporate it into their lives. They are making legal, safe, healthy cannabis use the norm as well.

The benefits for seniors

For the elderly, the benefit of medical cannabis goes beyond alleviating pain. It also has been established to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and even enhance mental functioning. As we age, we often go through alterations in our brains and emotions, such as depression or anxiety, that may affect our general well-being. Cannabis has also been established to work as an antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication, making elderly individuals feel calmer and more balanced.

Furthermore, cannabis is also being studied for its potential to enrich brain health. Cannabis has been reported in some studies to possibly repel neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, but more research is needed. For older citizens who would like to stay sharp and protect their cognitive skills, medical cannabis can be an added protective measure.