According to a 2023 census, there are over 58 million elderly people in the United States who encompass a wide range of different lifestyles [1]. Many of our senior loved ones live active and independent lives, while others receive support from family or care facilities.
Yet, no matter the differences in their daily routines, older adults often face similar hurdles, such as feelings of restlessness, trouble sleeping, and persistent aches and pains that can really get in the way of their comfort and mobility.
With more people looking for more natural solutions for their health, CBD products are becoming a favorable option, but medical cannabis products may not be available to everyone. This is where non-prescription CBD products offer widespread accessibility. The trouble is that not all products out there are going to be effective or safe.
This guide aims to offer insight into CBD oil and other popular products as a potential addition to the wellness routine of older adults.
We're all about ensuring safety, backing up our insights with scientific research, and keeping everything in line with FDA guidelines, which means that none of these nonprescription CBD products on our list is approved for mitigating or curing health conditions.
We strongly urge that individuals speak with their healthcare professionals who specialize in CBD research before adding any supplement to their routine to ensure it fits into their lifestyle and wellness goals.
With that being said, let's take a closer look at the potential health benefits the cannabis plant has to offer.
The Potential Benefits of CBD for Elderly People
Old adults aren't the only people who may benefit from adding CBD products to their routines. While CBD research is still in its early stages, it's shown to have a lot of potential in supporting a healthy lifestyle. Here's what the research has to say:
Discomfort Management
As we age, it's not uncommon to experience more aches and discomforts and even chronic pain. That's where CBD might come into play, especially for our elderly loved ones who struggle with relieving pain.
Many people will seek CBD for elderly pain with really great outcomes. Although hemp-derived CBD products aren't FDA-approved for managing acute and chronic pain, some research suggests CBD may interact with the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in supporting normal inflammatory responses and the perception of pain [2].
Sleep Quality
For older adults, a good night's sleep can sometimes be elusive, with restlessness and interrupted sleep patterns becoming more common.
Some individuals report incorporating CBD oil into their nighttime routine provides a more restful sleep experience. CBD is thought to influence the endocannabinoid system in a way that helps to promote relaxation in the mind and body, priming the body for rest [3].
Brain Health
Research into CBD's potential for supporting brain health in older adults is a growing topic of interest. However, there's still a lot of work to be done to understand CBD's role in supporting neuroprotection.
Recent studies have indicated that CBD may have antioxidant properties that may help to support the body's mechanisms for neutralizing harmful free radicals in the brain, reducing oxidative stress that contributes to the progression of neurodegenerative disorders [4].
There are other reasons people turn to CBD products, but this area of research is interesting nonetheless.
Supporting Mood
A big part of overall wellness often overlooked is maintaining a balanced mood, especially for seniors. Life’s changes and challenges can sometimes weigh heavily on our emotional well-being as we get older.
While CBD isn’t a cure or treatment for mood disorders, many people find CBD products helpful in fostering a sense of internal balance.
CBD's interaction with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) is believed to play a part in its potential to support mood. And there’s research to say that CBD may help people address feelings of anxiousness positively [5].
Supporting Healthy Mobility
Maintaining healthy mobility through the golden years becomes extremely important for maintaining independence and high quality of life, but it can be challenging. Joint pain, for instance, is a prevalent issue among the elderly that interferes with their ability to stay active.
This is an area where many people find that CBD products help.
People use CBD in various forms, both topically (CBD cream, salves, and balms) and internally (CBD gummies, oil, and capsules), to address discomfort associated with joint pain.
Applying CBD topically allows for targeted relief, as the compound interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, supporting the body's natural inflammation and pain response on-site [6].
Internally, CBD oil or capsules help by engaging the endocannabinoid system (ECS) body-wide for more systemic relief in relaxing the mind and body, which may help ease joint pain [7].
The Best CBD for the Elderly in 2024
- Best High Potency CBD Oil for Seniors: Neurogan Max Potency CBD Oil (12,000 MG)
- Best Pure CBD Isolate Oil for Seniors: MedTerra CBD Isolate Oil (3000 MG)
- Best Organic THC-Free Broad Spectrum CBD Oil for Seniors: Joy Organics Summer Lemon CBD Tincture (900 MG)
- Best Day-Time CBD Oil for Seniors: Lazarus Naturals CBG/CBD OIL Full Spectrum (1500 MG)
- Best Night-Time CBD Oil for Seniors: Neurogan CBD/CBN Tincture for Sleep (2000: 2000 MG)
Neurogan Max Potency CBD Oil
Sometimes, it can be hard to find a genuinely high potency full spectrum CBD tincture for those who require that extra support. This is why we formulated this 12,000 MG CBD oil — it's the strongest on the market while maintaining an affordable price point at only $0.02 per mg of CBD in the bottle.
While this dose is extremely high, what makes it suitable for most people is that you can customize CBD dosages drop by drop until you hit the desired level of effects.
We're best known for our high-quality CBD oils, but we also apply the same potency principles to other products, such as our gummies, topicals, and capsules, when you need that maximum potency.
- Price: $185
- Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD (also available in THC-free Broad Spectrum CBD)
- How much CBD Oil: 30 mL bottle
- CBD concentration: 4000 MG
- Cost per mg CBD: $0.02
MedTerra CBD Isolate Oil
While most experts agree with us that the best way to get the benefits of CBD oil is with full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD, which comes with a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes to support the impact of CBD in the system, there's still a place for a high-quality CBD isolate oil.
CBD isolates only contain one active ingredient. While it won't be as strong as a broad spectrum or full spectrum oil, some people may seek this option out for the unadulterated CBD experience.
And if you have to go with an isolate CBD product, we recommend MedTerra. The brand is known for its high-quality CBD products with dependable third-party lab tests that prove their safety and cannabinoid content.
- Price: $39.99–$132.99
- Extract Type: CBD Isolate
- How much CBD Oil: 30 mL bottle
- CBD concentration: 500, 1000, 3000 MG
- Cost per mg CBD: $0.04–$0.08
Joy Organics THC-Free Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture
Broad spectrum CBD for seniors might strike a good balance of whole hemp benefits without the THC. It's not an isolate because it contains minor cannabinoids and terpenes that support the effects of CBD oil tincture.
Joy Organics has an excellent, organic THC-free broad spectrum CBD tincture with moderate concentrations, which is suitable for beginners looking for extra CBD support. For seniors looking for a strong CBD potency, this isn't our first choice as it can get expensive, reaching doses of 50 mg or more.
- Price: $69.95
- Extract Type: Broad Spectrum CBD
- How much CBD Oil: 30 mL bottle
- CBD concentration: 900 MG
- Cost per mg CBD: $0.08
Lazarus Naturals CBG CBD Oil
One of the reasons people may not want to use CBD oils during the day is because high doses might cause sleepiness, but that's not the case with this CBG: CBD oil blend with Lazarus Naturals. CBG, or cannabigerol, is a minor cannabinoid associated with focus and clarity while providing a comforting benefits of CBD.
Together, many people enjoy this combination to support pain relief that's suitable for daytime use.
Lazarus Naturals is known for its commitment to quality, emphasizing making its products accessible and affordable. This tincture is no exception, providing high-quality cannabidiol and cannabigerol blend for those interested in exploring the combined effects of CBD and CBG.
- Price: $120
- Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD and CBG
- How much CBD Oil: 120 mL bottle
- CBD concentration: 1500 MG CBD, 1500 MG CBG
- Cost per mg CBD: $0.03
Neurogan CBN CBD Oil Tincture
On the other end of the spectrum, we have this CBD and CBN Oil (cannabinol oil) created to support a healthy sleep cycle. CBN is another minor cannabinoid that's best known for its relaxing qualities that complement the restorative benefits of CBD.
With a 1:1 ratio of full spectrum CBN:CBD 2000 mg each per bottle), you can reach higher potencies of hemp plant cannabinoids while being able to scale back when you need it too by working drop by drop.
We recommend taking this oil 60–90 minutes before your ideal bedtime, either directly under the tongue (sublingually) or in a warm beverage alongside other wind-down activities to help prepare your mind and body for sleep.
- Price: $95
- Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBN and CBD
- How much CBD Oil: 30 mL bottle
- CBD concentration: 2000 MG CBD, 2000 MG CBN
- Cost per mg CBD: $0.02
Other Noteworthy CBD Products for Seniors
One of the beauties of CBD extract as an ingredient is its versatility — it can be formulated into edibles, topicals, capsules, and smokable products, depending on the user's preference.
Two other CBD product types come to mind when we recommend CBD for seniors, and those are CBD gummies and CBD topicals.
Neurogan CBD Gummies
CBD gummies make for an easy and delicious way to get the potential health benefits of CBD in convenient, pre-measured chews. This is great for people who don't want to fuss with CBD oil measurements and just want a more straightforward product.
We have our CBD gummies in three concentrations: 1350 MG, 2700 MG, and 3600 MG, which gives you 45 MG, 90 MG, and 120 MG of full spectrum CBD per gummy.
This is our best-selling product that people use to support a wide range of wellness goals, from discomfort, mobility, stress, sleep, and more. The nice thing about these gummies is that you have one product you can scale your doses with over time, as you need it. Importantly, this is even considered as one of the best CBD gummies for nerve pain, which is especially relevant for individuals dealing with conditions like arthritis or the neuropathic pain that can accompany aging.
Neurogan CBD Roll-On
Our CBD Roll-On contains a high concentration of full spectrum CBD oil (4000 mg) with natural cooling agents in a mess-free, roll-on massage applicator.
Topical CBD is great for localized discomfort. This means that the CBD doesn't enter your bloodstream system and instead interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the skin to support its role in regulating the inflammatory response and pain sensation.
Our customers love the CBD Roll-On for post-workout support, tenderness, and achy joints. The best part is that you can apply it and reapply as needed throughout the day. It can be combined with CBD oils or gummies for even more senior CBD support.
How We Chose These CBD Products
Since entering the CBD world in 2015, we've witnessed many brands come and go.
Our favorite selections for CBD products come straight from real user stories and our own hands-on experiences with CBD oils.
At Neurogan, we're all about supporting brands that shine in reliability, are backed by third-party testing, and are champions at making customers feel cared for, which is how this list of CBD oils came together.
Tips for Managing CBD Oil for Elderly People
To ensure your senior loved one (or yourself) is gaining the most from CBD products, it's a good idea to approach its use carefully. We've outlined some practical tips for managing CBD oil with elderly individuals.
- Start with a Low Dose: Begin with the smallest possible dose and gradually increase as needed. This approach helps identify the most effective dose that provides benefits while minimizing potential side effects.
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Before starting CBD oil, consult with a healthcare provider, especially if the individual is taking other medications. CBD can interact with certain medications, so you want to make sure you have the green light to use it in conjunction.
- Choose High-Quality Products: Opt for the best CBD products for pain from reputable manufacturers that provide third-party testing results (like the ones on our list). This ensures the product is free from contaminants and accurately labeled for CBD content and THC levels.
- Monitor and Document Effects: Keep a journal to document the CBD dosage, doses' timing, and any observed effects. This record can be valuable for adjusting dosages and discussing the treatment with healthcare providers.
- Be Aware of Potential Side Effects: While CBD is generally well-tolerated, some may experience side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite. Being aware of these potential effects can help manage and mitigate them.
- Adjust Expectations: While some individuals report significant benefits from CBD oil, the effects can vary. Having realistic expectations and considering CBD oil as part of a broader wellness strategy is important.
The Takeaway: Best CBD Oil for Seniors
With so many different CBD products available, we understand how shopping for the right CBD oils for your specific needs can feel overwhelming — but equipped with the right information and a guide to some of the top products available, we hope you feel like you're ready to approach CBD oils with more confidence whether it's for yourself or a loved one.
Remember, while CBD offers potential benefits, it's important to approach its use with care and to consult with healthcare professionals, especially for elderly individuals or those with existing health conditions.
For those interested in exploring further, we invite you to check out Neurogan's extensive range of CBD products. Each item is crafted with care, quality, and customer satisfaction in mind, ensuring you get the best experience possible.
Resources:
- Caplan, Z. (2023). US older population grew from 2010 to 2020 at fastest rate since 1880 to 1890. United States Census Bureau.
- Argueta, D. A., Ventura, C. M., Kiven, S., Sagi, V., & Gupta, K. (2020). A balanced approach for cannabidiol use in chronic pain. Frontiers in pharmacology, 11, 561.
- Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H., & Hughes, S. (2019). Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: a large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23.
- Cassano, T., Villani, R., Pace, L., Carbone, A., Bukke, V. N., Orkisz, S., ... & Serviddio, G. (2020). From Cannabis sativa to cannabidiol: Promising therapeutic candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Frontiers in pharmacology, 11, 124.
- Skelley, J. W., Deas, C. M., Curren, Z., & Ennis, J. (2020). Use of cannabidiol in anxiety and anxiety-related disorders. Journal of the American Pharmacists Association, 60(1), 253-261.
- Scheau, C., Badarau, I. A., Mihai, L. G., Scheau, A. E., Costache, D. O., Constantin, C., ... & Caruntu, A. (2020). Cannabinoids in the pathophysiology of skin inflammation. Molecules, 25(3), 652.
- Frane, N., Stapleton, E., Iturriaga, C., Ganz, M., Rasquinha, V., & Duarte, R. (2022). Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study. Journal of Cannabis Research, 4(1), 47.
