The popularity of CBD oil products has been growing among people from all walks of life. This includes people looking for health improvements and athletes. Today, even older people in their golden years use CBD oil for seniors. Thankfully, product options are available for the elderly to help address common ailments such as sleep problems, arthritis, or body aches.
CBD is a natural extract from hemp that is used in an oil. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, CBD does not cause the “high” that is often associated with cannabis use. While CBD products may not meet all the complex care needs of older people, they can provide helpful measures to keep them comfortable. Additionally, some CBD products contain active compounds like lidocaine that can effectively relieve everyday aches and pains. So, what are the top benefits of CBD oil for seniors?
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Benefits of CBD Oil for Seniors
Here are the main ways elderly people use CBD oil today for its natural benefits.
Pain Management
It’s not uncommon for older adults to experience chronic pain, which can manifest as joint pain, arthritis, or neuropathic pain. Fortunately, CBD oil has emerged as a promising solution to alleviate such discomfort. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps to quell inflammation and reduce pain signals. Scientific studies have demonstrated that CBD oil can be an effective treatment for arthritic pain and inflammation without the adverse side effects that often accompany traditional pain medications. It’s a significant reason for people to take CBD oil for seniors. Easing discomfort and providing relief for aches makes everyday life better.
Improved Sleep Quality
As people age, they may experience changes in their sleep patterns or suffer from sleep disorders. These issues can be frustrating and even impact their overall health and well-being. CBD may be a helpful solution for those struggling with sleep. CBD oil promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety, improving sleep quality and duration. Unlike traditional sleep medications, CBD has a low risk of dependence and does not typically cause drowsiness or other unpleasant side effects. CBD oil for seniors may be worth considering if you’re elderly and looking for a natural way to improve your sleep.
Neuroprotective Properties
There is promising evidence to suggest that CBD oil may offer a protective effect against neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, which are known to be more common among older individuals. Research indicates CBD could enhance brain health, decrease inflammation, and even prevent cognitive decline. These findings are particularly significant given the prevalence of these debilitating diseases and the lack of effective treatment options currently available.
Heart Health
CBD oil is a vasodilator and assists in reducing blood pressure. It also has remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for blood vessels. Overall, it’s excellent at promoting heart health, including for the elderly. These properties effectively reduce blood pressure and prevent heart risks as we age. Moreover, CBD’s ability to alleviate stress and anxiety is an added advantage in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. These cardiovascular protecting properties make using CBD oil for seniors a longevity booster.
Inflammation
In addition to the above benefits, CBD oil’s antioxidant properties can contribute to skin health, reducing visible signs of aging. It helps to prevent wrinkles, skin dehydration and rosy skin tone. CBD oil can also support the skin’s healing process. It has immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can help balance the immune system. This is particularly beneficial for older adults, as the immune system weakens with age, increasing susceptibility to infections and diseases.
Challenges of Age
Why consider CBD oil for seniors in the first place? The answer is simple. As people grow older, the natural decline in bodily functions can result in various health problems. These issues can range from chronic diseases to diminished physical and cognitive capacities. It makes older adults consider dietary supplements or natural remedies like CBD to help manage these age-related issues. Doing so can help improve their overall quality of life. Here are some common health problems encountered with aging.
Chronic Pain and Inflammation
As age progresses, conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and chronic joint pain become more prevalent. Inflammation is a crucial contributor to these conditions. Supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, CBD oil, and turmeric can help reduce inflammation. Some may even assist in alleviating aches and pains. They offer a natural alternative to long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can have severe side effects.
Bone Density Loss
Osteoporosis and decreased bone density are significant risks for older adults, leading to increased fragility and higher chances of fractures. Supplements like calcium and vitamin D are commonly considered to maintain bone strength and density, along with other bone health supplements like magnesium and vitamin K2 to maintain bone strength and density.
Cardiovascular Health
As we grow older, the risk of heart disease tends to increase, primarily due to factors like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and wear and tear on the arteries. However, many supplements have been shown to positively impact heart health. For instance, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has been found to support cardiovascular function, while omega-3 fatty acids help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. Antioxidants are also beneficial for heart health, as they help to protect against damage caused by harmful free radicals and contribute to healthy cholesterol levels. By incorporating these compounds into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps toward supporting your heart health and reducing your risk of heart disease.
Cognitive Decline
As we age, our cognitive abilities tend to decline, which can lead to severe conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Many older adults look for ways to support their brain health and slow cognitive decline, and supplements are a popular option. Some supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, Ginkgo biloba, and specific vitamins (such as B, C, and E), have been studied for their potential to improve memory and overall brain function.
Can CBD Oil Help with Wrinkles?
One of the most promising areas of CBD oil for seniors is its effects on aging skin. Studies have shown that CBD has powerful antioxidant properties that help neutralise harmful free radicals. These unstable molecules can damage skin cells and cause premature aging, including wrinkles. By protecting against free radical damage, CBD helps prevent collagen and elastin breakdown. These proteins provide structure and elasticity to the skin, so keeping them intact can help maintain a youthful appearance.
Anti-Aging Effects
In addition to its antioxidant properties, CBD oil can help boost skin hydration. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing wrinkles. CBD has been shown to enhance skin barrier function, which helps to retain moisture and improve skin texture.
Some research also suggests that CBD may support collagen production. Collagen is a critical protein for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. By promoting collagen synthesis, CBD could help reduce the visible signs of aging, including wrinkles. Overall, using CBD oil in seniors is a promising product aimed at preventing and reducing wrinkles. Its antioxidant, hydrating, and collagen-supporting properties make it a versatile addition to any anti-aging skincare routine.
Which CBD Oil for Seniors to Choose
When searching for a CBD oil for seniors, a few key factors can influence its effectiveness.
Product Strength
One of the most significant factors is the concentration of CBD in the oil, which is usually measured in milligrams per bottle. Generally speaking, the higher the concentration, the more milligrams of CBD there are in each serving. Most brands will indicate how many milligrams are contained in a single serving, which is also essential to consider. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can use a larger serving of a lower concentration or a smaller serving of a higher concentration or follow the exact measurement of a serving as specified on the package. This gives you some flexibility in how you schedule your CBD daily servings.
To begin with, it’s recommended that you start with the lowest concentration and a smaller serving amount than what’s suggested on the label. Try 2-5mg per kg body weight initially. Continue using it for a few weeks before adjusting the amount as needed. If you’ve been using the recommended serving size for a month and aren’t experiencing the desired effects, increasing the concentration may help.
Before starting any CBD regimen, it’s best to consult a doctor for yourself or your elderly family member. Doctors can help you get started and offer information on how CBD may benefit you, how to use it, and how much you should take. CBD oils for seniors are available in various concentrations, which you can choose based on your loved one’s specific needs and how well the drops work. It’s best to start with a lower strength than you believe you’ll need and gradually increase it.
How Should the Elderly Use CBD?
Elderly individuals who are considering using CBD oil should approach it with great caution and care. They should consider various factors such as their overall health, existing medical conditions, and any medications they are currently taking. Before starting CBD oil, always consult with a healthcare professional, especially if they are taking other medications.
Lab Testing
Opting for high-quality CBD oil for seniors that has been third-party tested for purity, potency, and contaminants is crucial. Reliable suppliers should provide a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for their products. Elderly individuals should consider whether full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolated CBD oil is most suitable. Full-spectrum oil contains all cannabinoids and terpenes from the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC, while broad-spectrum has no THC, and isolates are pure CBD.
Consistency and Timing
Consistency is critical when using CBD oil to manage symptoms. Regular use helps to maintain a steady level of CBD in the body, contributing to its effectiveness. CBD oil can be consumed in several ways, including sublingually (under the tongue), ingested in capsules or edibles, or applied topically. The method of use can affect the onset and duration of effects. Elderly individuals should consider using CBD oil at times of day when relief is most needed. For sleep issues, taking CBD oil in the evening may be beneficial, while for chronic pain or anxiety, regular dosing throughout the day may be more effective.
It’s crucial to track symptoms and CBD oil usage to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. Based on the response and any side effects, CBD oil dosage may need to be adjusted. This should be done under medical guidance. Although CBD is generally well-tolerated, some may experience side effects such as dry mouth, drowsiness, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Being aware of these potential side effects can help manage them effectively.
Conclusion
Today, more elderly people are benefitting from CBD oil for seniors than ever before. It helps boost the quality of life as people get older. As people age, they often face various health challenges impacting this quality. Thankfully, CBD oil has emerged as a promising natural remedy that can potentially help seniors deal with issues like pain, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and age-related cognitive changes. The best part? CBD oil is relatively safe for the elderly and has few side effects, making it an attractive option for older adults looking to improve their overall wellness. Of course, it’s essential to be mindful of quality, dosage, and medical advice to ensure that the benefits of CBD oil for seniors are maximised while minimising any potential risks. As research in this area expands, we’ll see more evidence supporting CBD oil’s role in enhancing seniors’ health and quality of life.
References
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- Few, J., Lee, M., Semersky, A., Mariscal L E, E. and Vachon, G. (2022). A Single-center Study Evaluating the Effects of a Novel Retinol and Cannabidiol Combination Topical on Facial Skin. Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8905336/
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