A recent study sheds light on a growing mental health concern: cannabis use disorder in older veterans. Among veterans aged 65 and older who recently used cannabis, more than one-third screened positive for the disorder. The findings are a wake-up call to healthcare providers, particularly those working with aging populations in systems like the Veterans Health Administration.
Who Is Most at Risk?
The study analyzed data from over 4,500 veterans (average age 73), and the results revealed several risk factors for cannabis use disorder. Those who used cannabis frequently, were younger than 76, had a history of anxiety, or used other illicit drugs were more likely to develop problematic use patterns. Men were also at higher risk.
Cannabis use was reported in different forms, including smoking, vaping, and edibles. Notably, those who used inhaled forms of cannabis had significantly higher odds of developing cannabis use disorder compared to those who used only edibles.
Interestingly, veterans who used cannabis solely for medical reasons—mainly for pain—were less likely to screen positive for a disorder than those who used it recreationally. This suggests that intention and context of use may influence outcomes.
Screening
for Cannabis Use Disorder in Older Adults
Healthcare professionals are now being urged to routinely screen for cannabis use disorder in older veterans, especially during regular health checkups. As cannabis becomes more accessible, older adults may underestimate its potential for harm, particularly its effect on mental health and cognitive function.
One concern is that older adults may experience stronger effects from THC, including confusion, dizziness, and increased risk of falls. Add to that the increased vulnerability to anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts in aging populations, and the need for intervention becomes clear.
Why Cannabis Use Disorder Matters in Geriatric Psychiatry
Cannabis use disorder in older veterans is not just a substance misuse issue—it intersects with broader concerns in geriatric psychiatry. These include managing chronic pain, addressing comorbid anxiety, and preventing cognitive decline. Without proper screening and early intervention, cannabis misuse can go unnoticed and untreated, potentially worsening psychiatric symptoms.
Looking Ahead: Mental Health Policy and Research Needs
The study, led by researchers from the San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System and published in JAMA Network Open, emphasizes the importance of integrating cannabis use questions into routine care. However, because the study was based on self-reported data and limited to veterans, more research is needed to generalize these findings to other older adult populations.
As mental health providers and policymakers navigate the evolving landscape of medical and recreational cannabis use, attention must be paid to vulnerable groups like aging veterans. Balancing therapeutic benefits with potential risks is key to advancing ethical, effective, and safe mental health care.
Learn more at https://interventionalpsychiatry.org/
References:
Pravosud, V. et al. (2025). Prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder Among Older Veterans. JAMA Network Open. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2805170
National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2023). Cannabis (Marijuana) Research Report. https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana
Read more topics from the Interventional Psychiatry News & Subscribe to our Newsletter
Editorial Disclaimer:
This article was produced using a combination of editorial tools, including AI, as part of our content development process. All content is reviewed by human editors before publication.