5 Benefits of CBD for Seniors

In recent years CBD has exploded in popularity with people of all ages.
One age group that has huge potential to benefit from CBD’s effects – and already has – are seniors.
People 60 and over have jumped on the CBD bandwagon as they’ve recognized many of the problems associated with aging – from arthritis to poor quality sleep – can be alleviated by CBD.

So, What is CBD?
You’ve probably heard of CBD, but what is it, exactly? CBD is short for cannabidiol. This is a chemical extracted from the Cannabis plant (hemp or industrial hemp) and is one of over 100 different molecules – referred to as cannabinoids – endemic to that plant.
CBD – whether taken via tincture, inhaled, or applied directly to the skin in the form of a topical – binds to receptors within our nervous systems and helps to regulate the wellbeing of our bodies.
Actually, CBD and other cannabinoids are similar to chemicals called endocannabinoids which already exist within our bodies and are important in the regulation of various systems, but can sometimes be in short supply – especially as we age!
This means it’s especially useful for older people. Below, we’ll look at five benefits a daily dose of CBD can have for seniors.

CBD Can Alleviate Physical Pain
Unfortunately, it often seems like chronic pain and aging go hand in hand. As we get older, the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders increases sharply.
Arthritis especially is a huge problem for seniors – according to one survey, almost half of all adults over age 65 suffer from either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
When it comes to arthritis, the physical pain experienced is caused by inflammation. Luckily, CBD’s properties as an anti-inflammatory are well known, having been demonstrated in multiple studies. It can reduce the swelling that is the cause of arthritis.
CBD comes in a topical form, which is the best solution here as it can be applied directly to the problem area.
Chronic physical pain can make it hard to live your life the way you want to, making it tough to perform even routine activities. CBD is one possible solution to this problem.

CBD Can Help Our Bones
As we get older, our bones become more brittle – this is the main reason why falls can be such a problem for older people, even resulting in death.
Osteoporosis is one problem that can develop as a result of decreasing bone density, making
A study from 2009 recognized the link between cannabinoids and bone health. CBD can improve the fortitude of our bones and even decrease the time it takes for fractures to heal.
While it’s still important to be cautious, CBD may reduce the risks inherent in weak bones and stave off or lessen the severity of problems such as osteoporosis.

CBD Can Lessen Mental Stress
The reduction of physical pain can help to lessen mental stress, but CBD is well-known to increase feelings of relaxation
Our endocannabinoid systems also interact with neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin and adenosine and can make it our brains respond to these chemicals the way they’re supposed to. In this way, it can also increase mental sharpness.
If you’re struggling with arthritis, poor sleep, or even something as serious as cancer, you’re going to have accompanying mental stress. CBD will enhance your ability to relax

CBD Can Improve Sleep Quality
Many elderly people have trouble with sleep. Not only do they feel tired throughout the day, but lack of sleep makes it so the body doesn’t have a chance to repair itself, leading to a vicious cycle of fatigue and, possibly, further health problems.
CBD can help with sleep both directly and indirectly. It can help directly by interacting with our body’s endocannabinoid system, which is important in regulating sleep patterns.
Indirectly it can help by lessening issues that can make it difficult for seniors to fall asleep and stay asleep, such as anxiety or chronic pain.
The importance of good quality sleep – especially for seniors – can’t be understated! Sleep boosts the immune system to defend against illness and can fortify the brain against potential problems such as dementia.

CBD Oil Doesn’t Come with Side Effects
Seniors can find themselves taking a plethora of medications, some of which come with intrusive side effects.
Or, maybe they’re taking opiates and find themselves becoming increasingly dependent on them.
CBD is completely natural and similar to chemicals that already exist in our bodies, so your body is already “expecting” it, in a sense. Additionally, there’s no risk of developing an addicting to CBD.
Keep in mind that CBD can sometimes interact with certain medications, so be sure to first check with your doctor if you are taking any prescription drugs.

Conclusion
Beyond everything listed above, there are even more exciting reasons for consistent CBD use emerging – for example, CBD is being looked at as a possible treatment for Alzheimer’s and dementia.

What makes CBD great is that, due to the endocannabinoid system, it’s a truly holistic solution, and interacts with so many of our body’s systems that are causing trouble for seniors. While we have yet to find the proverbial fountain of youth, CBD for seniors may be the next best thing!