Investigating the effects of marijuana use on health and injuries in older adults

Marijuana Use in Older Adults: Health, Function and Fall-Related Injury

NIH-funded research Northern California Institute/res/edu · NIH-10576324

This study looks at how using marijuana might affect the health and safety of older adults, especially regarding falls and hospital visits, to help understand the risks involved for seniors.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthern California Institute/res/edu NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10576324 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the rising use of marijuana among older adults, focusing on its potential health impacts and risks, particularly concerning fall-related injuries and hospitalization. By analyzing national data from the Veterans Health Administration and Medicare, the study aims to identify the relationship between marijuana use and adverse health outcomes in seniors. The research will utilize advanced text processing methods to extract relevant information from medical records, providing insights into how marijuana affects older individuals' health and safety.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who use or have used marijuana.

Not a fit: Patients under 65 years old or those who do not use marijuana may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could inform safer treatment options for older adults and guide healthcare providers in managing marijuana use among this population.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on older adults, studies on younger populations have highlighted significant adverse effects of THC, suggesting the need for this investigation.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.