As long as you’re alive, aging becomes inevitable. According to the CDC, older adults in the U.S. are expected to reach 81 million by 2040 and 94.7 million by 2060. However, aging comes with health risks like dementia, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis. These chronic ailments are the leading causes of disability, high healthcare costs, and death.
Fortunately, CBD is touted for its several health benefits for seniors. Cannabidiol is actively derived from the cannabis plant and contains little to no THC. CBD affects the receptors in ECS and restores homeostasis.
But how can seniors benefit from CBD products in reliable stores like Moon Mother Hemp?
Let’s dive in.
1. Neurodegenerative Disorders
Aging is a natural process characterized by behavioral, biological, physical, and psychological changes. Neurodegenerative disorders are among the psychological changes you may expect with age. The diseases occur when the nerve cells in the peripheral nervous system or brain lose their functionality over time.
Loss of neurons in the nervous system can lead to a dramatic decline in motor and cognitive functions. Diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s cause the nerves to deteriorate with age.
While research on cannabidiol is ongoing, promising clinical results show the effects of CBD oil on neurodegenerative diseases. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce inflammation in the nervous system, potentially slowing down neurodegenerative disorders.
CBD also demonstrates neuroprotective properties that may be relevant in protecting brain cells from damage. This effect can also slow the degenerative process.
2. Sleep Disorders
Aging is also tied to poor sleep, contributing to low quality of life. Older adults experience changes due to the body’s internal clock. Physical and mental health conditions can also interfere with sleep as you age. Conditions like diabetes, anxiety, arthritis, and depression are the leading causes of insomnia.
Seniors diagnosed with multiple health conditions report having less than five hours of sleep. Some of the over-the-counter medications may cause unanticipated effects on sleep. Other causes can be due to less structured sleeping schedule after retirement, social isolation, and loss of independence.
Studies indicate that CBD may indirectly alleviate sleep disorders, including restless sleep syndrome and insomnia. CBD works with the hypothalamus, which plays a role in sleep-related functions. Cannabidiol suppresses the dysregulated stress hormone and equalizes the sleep-wake cycle.
CBD may also improve the quantity and quality of sleep to address the circadian rhythm disorder.
Several studies have established that CBD can potentially treat anxiety disorders in older adults. The calmness relaxes your body and mind without worrying about euphoria.
3. Bone Health
Changes in gait and posture are common with aging. Joints on the skeleton provide support to the body. They make the skeleton flexible for enhanced mobility. Joints and bones do not contact each other but are cushioned by a film of cartilage. Muscles provide strength; any change can affect the walking pattern and posture, causing slowed and weakened movement.
As the age increases, the bones lose density or mass, leading to weakness. The vertebrae will also lose the mineral content, leading to thinner bones. Once the spinal column becomes compressed and curved, it contributes to a slight height loss.
Due to some degenerative changes, the knees and hip bones can also lose cartilage. Aging can also cause a decrease in lean body mass.
CBD interacts with the skeletal system through ECS, which reduces bone discomfort and pain. It may also address inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The antioxidant properties in CBD can also protect the bones from diseases and further damage.
4. Heart Health
Some changes in blood vessels and the heart occur with age due to modifiable factors. The natural heart pacemaker may slow down as you age due to fat deposits. The heart wall may also thicken if the size of the heart increases, decreasing the amount of blood it can hold. The heart of a senior can work harder because of other conditions, including:
- Illness
- Certain medicines
- Injuries
- Emotional stress
- Infections
Inflammation is the leading cause of various diseases, including high blood pressure, stroke, and coronary heart disease. Some evidence indicates that cannabidiol has anti-inflammatory properties, which protect the heart. Some studies also suggest that cannabidiol may lower blood pressure in seniors, which is a huge risk factor for heart disease.
CBD may also minimize oxidative stress caused by an imbalance between antioxidants and free radicals. Reducing oxidative stress protects the cardiovascular system from getting damaged.
5. Appetite Stimulation
Many seniors lose their appetite, making them struggle during mealtimes. This is a crucial issue because eating keeps older adults healthy and strong. Some of the diseases causing changes in appetite and taste include:
- Cancer
- Salivary gland problems
- Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease
- Throat and mouth infections
- Thyroid inflammation
Seniors may lose their appetite due to inactivity, lack of daily routine, and dehydration. Older adults who live alone may also find it challenging to prepare meals. As age kicks in, many people’s taste buds might not detect flavors, making meals unpalatable. Difficulty chewing and swallowing make seniors detest eating.
CBD interacts with the ECS to regulate physiological processes, such as food intake and appetite. The hemp-derived compound influences cannabinoid receptors in the body and mind, potentially affecting food consumption.
The antiemetic properties in CBD can alleviate vomiting and nausea in seniors, boosting their appetite.
6. Mental Health
Older adults aged 60 and above make essential contributions by actively participating in community events and activities. While most have excellent mental health, some suffer from neurological disorders, substance abuse, and mental disorders.
Seniors may experience stressors like declining functional ability, codependence, and loneliness after retirement. All these stressors can result in psychological distress and isolation.
CBD may alleviate anxiety and depression to promote relaxation to facilitate social engagement. The all-natural compound is also investigated for its anti-anxiety properties that may help reduce stress. Seniors experiencing stress-related disorders, including PTSD and depression, can benefit immensely from CBD.
Wrapping Up
With a wide range of CBD brands on the market and heightened scientific research, CBD’s potential health benefits are coming to light. The hemp compound is showing promising results in improving various conditions and ailments in older adults. But it’s important to determine the right product by ensuring no drug interactions.
