Pain-free in old age: why more and more seniors are switching to cannabis prescriptions
More and more older people are discovering cannabis as a serious alternative to traditional pain therapy. New data shows that the trend is increasing significantly in Germany – especially among patients for whom conventional medication fails. Want to become a patient yourself? Start here: Request a cannabis prescription.
Cannabis on prescription: new prospects for older people
Cannabis used to be seen primarily as a recreational drug among young people. Today, it is a real medical option for many people over 50. According to a nationwide survey by the BfArM, over 16,800 patients were interviewed. The average age is 57 years.
Study and source: BFARM
The most important results of the survey
The study clearly shows how widespread the medical application has become.
- Average age: 57 years
- 76.4 percent use cannabis specifically for pain
- It is also used for sleep problems and nausea
Cannabis for pain: why many are switching
When traditional painkillers no longer work or have too many side effects, many older people look for alternatives. This is exactly where cannabis offers a solution. It can provide noticeable relief, especially for chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatism or nerve pain.
“In almost 75% of cases, the use of cannabis medicines led to an improvement in symptoms … common side effects: Fatigue, dizziness, nausea”
Source: BFARM
Typical areas of application for elderly patients
The range of complaints for which medicinal cannabis can help is wide.

More quality of life in everyday life
For many sufferers, the focus is not on a cure, but on a better quality of life. Cannabis on prescription enables more participation, activity and well-being – without the feeling of being permanently sedated or restricted.
Advantages over conventional medication
Compared to opioids or strong painkillers, many patients appreciate the milder effect and lower dependency.
- Fewer side effects
- Individually dosable
- Natural origin
Not only seniors benefit, this experience report also shows how effective cannabis pain therapy can be.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPWT_W5G4zM
Easy access and security of supply for all
To ensure that even more people can benefit from the advantages, we are actively working to strengthen the security of supply. Access to medicinal cannabis should be as uncomplicated as possible for patients – without long waiting times, bureaucratic hurdles or supply bottlenecks. Our aim is to ensure that everyone who needs it is supplied reliably and safely.
Chronic pain, what to do?
Cannabis for senior citizens has long been a reality
The survey shows that cannabis has arrived in the older generation. As a complementary or alternative form of therapy, it offers hope – especially for those who have reached the limits of traditional methods. The demand for medicinal cannabis will continue to rise as knowledge and acceptance spread.
More facts?












