Understanding how long-term cannabis use affects aging in older adults
Official title: Comprehensive portrait of long-term cannabis users: Are they ready for old age?
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10764226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term cannabis use affects the health and memory of older adults who have used it regularly for many years, especially as they get older and face risks like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2020 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $322,940 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG069939-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10764226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 50 and above who have been regular cannabis users for at least 30 years.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or have only used it sporadically may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of long-term cannabis use on the aging process in older adults, particularly focusing on those who have used cannabis regularly for decades. It aims to assess their cognitive and biological health as they enter later life, specifically looking at risks for conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing data from a unique cohort study, the research will explore whether these individuals maintain their cognitive reserve and overall health as they age. Participants will be evaluated through in-depth interviews and clinical assessments to understand their health status and aging trajectory.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into how long-term cannabis use impacts health and aging, potentially guiding better health strategies for older adults.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into cannabis use and health, this specific focus on long-term users in the context of aging is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moffitt, Terrie E — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Moffitt, Terrie E
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.