Community Update (2/1/24)

Wellness

Going to Pot; Seniors’ Use of Cannabis, by Joan Smith

A recent Washington Post Health article (Jan. 3, 2024) explored the use of cannabis by senior citizens, and found that 8% of people over 65 reported having used it in the past year. While experts agree that marijuana (cannabis) has therapeutic value, they caution that there are potential downsides to consider before trying this out. But, first let’s be clear about the topic.

Marijuana (aka cannabis, weed, pot, dope) refers to the dried flowers, leaves, stems and seeds of the cannabis plant. The plant contains many compounds including tetrahydro-cannabinol (THC) which is mind-impairing or mind-altering, as well as other compounds including cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is not impairing, so does not cause a “high” while THC does. Please visit the CDC website to learn more..

Scientists are still trying to determine which compounds may help, and which may hurt, thus the plant taken whole is not advised. At present, the FDA has approved one plant-based marijuana drug (Epidiolex) which contains purified cannabidiol (CBD) from the plant. The drug is used to treat seizures associated with a rare form of epilepsy.  The FDA has also approved two medications (brand names Marinol and Syndros for one, and Cesamet the other), made from a synthetic or lab-made chemical that mimics THC; these medications are used to treat nausea in patients with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy, and to increase appetite in AIDS patients.

The Post article stresses that older people who are on any medications such as for blood pressure or irregular heartbeats, need to be cautious, and consult their health care provider before adding anything from the cannabis plant, as some compounds greatly affect the potency of the original drugs and/or the physical conditions. Since cannabis is now sold in so many different forms, one has to be selective as to whether it contains THC and/or CBD. Of course, smoking and vaping are not recommended as they adversely affect the pulmonary functions.  And, while Gummies seem innocent, they may be easy to overdose on, causing concerning symptoms. A study published in 2023 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that “cannabis-related emergency department visits for adults 65 and older in California soared from 366 in 2005 to 12,167 in 2019”!

Many seniors try out cannabis in desperation when their chronic pain, or sleeplessness does not respond to previous treatments. Plunging in without caution can be dangerous! Discussing this with one’s health care provider first, and coming to a consensus on what and which form to take is wise. The provider may consult to see how the cannabis can negatively interact with medications commonly used by older patients, such as blood thinners, antidepressants and seizure medication. Apparently, the enzyme that metabolizes CBD is the same one that metabolizes other drugs, influencing the effectiveness of prescription medication.

CBD is widely marketed by many celebrities and others, for pain relief of muscles and of arthritis, and (full disclosure, this author has used a cream); the creams seem to have positive effects, while missing the THC compound (the mind-altering one). But, the potency of the external use CBD as well as the tinctures taken by mouth, are not really standardized. And because the CBD market is loosely regulated “and beset by legal loopholes, some products labeled as pure CBD actually contain THC.” (Post article, Jan. 3, 2024)

There is now a label on overuse, “cannabis use disorder,” essentially addiction, that is more frequently seen now in those over 65 who are hospitalized for cardiovascular risk factors; this puts them at a greater risk for heart attacks and strokes. Thus, cannabis use needs to be examined by the patient and health provider as to the “cost/benefit ratio.”

So, with all the research done and information we have, it is still an individual decision, that bodes well to be carefully evaluated on an individual basis.

New Lifeline Pricing and Options

For anyone considering a medical alert system for themselves, a client, friend or family member, Virginia Health is excited to offer new pricing and a new product option.

• Monthly prices for all in-home units will decrease starting January 1. Savings vary by unit but are up to 15% off previous pricing. In addition, there will no longer be a one-time purchase fee for the mobile (“On the Go”) device – a savings of $99.
• The mobile device is now smaller. At only 1.5 ounces, the new On the Go Mini is easy to wear and comes with a belt clip, which gives the user more versatility. This device offers the same benefits as the original On the Go device, including 4G LTE, 2-way voice communication, waterproof design, fall detection feature, and locating technology.

As a reminder, Virginia Health is always willing to help individuals with limited income. The VHC Lifeline Assistance Fund helps to decrease the monthly cost anywhere from 40-60% depending on the unit. Questions, contact 703-558-6859 or

Seniorhealth@vhchealth.org.

COVID Annual Vaccination

Getting vaccinated and boosted is an important way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. If it’s been a while since your vaccination/booster, your protection may need a boost. Updated COVID-19 vaccines are available now and protect against the Omicron variant. Other vaccines, including this year’s flu vaccine, are also available. Staying up to date with your COVID vaccine can reduce the risk that you’ll:

• Get seriously ill, need hospital care, or die from COVID-19
• Develop long COVID-19
• Spread the disease to others, putting their health and lives at risk.