Grandparents’ Day is coming up, a perfect chance to catch up and spend time with loved ones.
Introducing cannabis into the conversation and activities can make the day even more memorable.
With a bit of creativity and a visit to Blue Oak, you can ensure that the day is both meaningful and enjoyable.
This blog offers guidance on discussing cannabis, selecting the right product, and planning activities to make Grandparents Day one to remember.
What Seniors Should Know About Cannabis
Understanding Cannabis Today
Let’s put it this way: cannabis is way stronger than it used to be. If it’s been a while since Grandpa or Grandma lit one up, they might be in for a surprise.
Today’s strains have much higher THC levels, which means even familiar products like flower can feel a lot more intense than what they remember.
If they decide to give it another try, it’s best to start with a tiny amount and take it slow.
Medication Interactions
It’s important to remember that cannabis can interact with certain medications, something especially relevant for older adults who may take multiple prescriptions. It can also increase your heart rate, which may be uncomfortable or unsafe if your grandparent has a certain medical condition.
To stay safe, it’s a good idea for anyone taking prescription medication to chat with their doctor or a member of their healthcare team before trying cannabis. A medical professional can provide personalized advice to avoid any potential issues or interactions.
It’s always better to be cautious and get professional guidance to ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Methods of Consumption
There are a lot more ways to enjoy cannabis than joints and brownies these days. If Grandma or Grandpa is curious about trying it again, they might want to explore newer options.
- Tinctures: Easy to use with just a few drops under the tongue, tinctures can be a simple and effective way for older adults to consume cannabis. They’re discreet, easy to dose, and have a fast onset time. Bonus: tinctures don’t require smoking.
- Vaporizing flower: This method uses an electronic device to heat cannabis to a temperature that releases its active compounds without burning it. It may be easier on the lungs compared to a method that uses a lighter, which creates ashy byproducts. Vaporizing flower can be a cleaner, more controlled way to inhale cannabis. Plus, it produces less odor, making it a discreet option.
- Edibles: These products are a hit among older adults for their discretion and easy-to-dose, pre-measured serving sizes. They last longer than inhaled products like vaporizers, too, which makes them great for keeping pain at bay for hours. Just start low and go slow — too many edibles may be a little too far out for Grandpa and Grandma.
- Topicals: Applied like any other lotion, topicals are unique in that they don’t enter the bloodstream, so you’re highly unlikely to experience intoxicating effects with them. Topicals make great companion products alongside inhalation, acting as a great second source of soothing cannabinoids if your loved one struggles with arthritis or other chronic pain conditions.
Benefits of Cannabis for Seniors
Older adults say that cannabis is a helpful part of their lives for many reasons, including:
Pain Management
Cannabis can be a helpful option for managing pain, and for some, it might mean taking fewer over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. No pain without the risk of dependency or harsh side effects? No wonder seniors are the fastest-growing cannabis clientele.
Mental Health
Cannabis may offer benefits for mental health, including the management of symptoms that stem from anxiety and stress. More than one-quarter of older adults experience some sort of symptom of anxiety, and cannabis may be a helpful tool to help them relax.
General Quality of Life
By potentially alleviating pain, improving mood, and more, cannabis can contribute to the overall quality of life for seniors.
It can help maintain a more active and engaged lifestyle, crucial for emotional well-being and physical health.
Tips for Selecting Cannabis Products for Older Adults
Selecting the right products is essential when introducing your grandparents to cannabis. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Read Labels and Dosage: Always check the product labels for information on THC content, CBD content, and other ingredients. This helps gauge potency and understand what you’re consuming. Start with low doses and gradually increase as needed, especially if you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product. Accurate dosing can help avoid unwanted effects and ensure a positive experience.
- Choose the Right Form of Consumption: Different methods of consuming cannabis, like tinctures, edibles, or vaping, can have different effects and onset times. Consider what suits your needs and preferences best. For instance, tinctures offer fast relief with easy dosing, while edibles provide longer-lasting effects but take longer to kick in. Choose a method that aligns with your lifestyle and comfort levels.
- Consider Discretion: If keeping cannabis on the DL is important to your grandparents, consider products and methods that are less obvious. For instance, tinctures and edibles are more discreet than smoking or vaporizing. A discreet dispensary matters, too — look for retailers like Blue Oak that are housed in a regular office building, and without a trace of the “stoner” aesthetic in sight.
Considerations Before Trying Cannabis for Seniors
It’s important to approach cannabis with caution to ensure a safe and positive experience. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Potential Side Effects: Be aware that cannabis can have side effects, such as dizziness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite. These effects can vary based on the strain and method of consumption. Make sure your grandparents don’t eat the whole brownie at first.
- Monitoring Reactions: Advise the older adults in your life to pay attention to how they feel. Everyone’s reaction can differ, so observing responses helps adjust the dosage and method to find what works best.
- Start Low and Go Slow: It’s much easier to take more than to undo the effects of taking too much. This approach helps everyone find the right balance without getting overwhelmed.
- Consulting with a Doctor or a Healthcare Team Member: It’s always wise to talk with a healthcare provider, especially if a grandparent has any underlying health conditions or they’re taking other medications. A doctor can provide personalized advice and ensure that cannabis consumption is safe and appropriate.
Encouraging Conversations on Grandparents Day
How to Talk to Your Grandparents — Or Any Older Adult — About Cannabis
When discussing cannabis with your grandparents, it’s essential to approach the conversation with empathy and respect. Here are some tips to guide your discussion:
- Be Informative and Gentle: Provide clear and straightforward information about cannabis, focusing on how it has evolved and what it can offer today. Avoid overwhelming them with too many details at once.
- Highlight the Benefits: Explain how cannabis might help with specific issues like pain management or mental health, emphasizing any potential benefits while acknowledging the need for caution.
- Discuss Different Methods: Introduce them to various consumption methods, from tinctures and edibles to vaporizing, and explain how each technique might suit different preferences and needs.
- Go With Them To The Dispensary: Help your grandparents learn about the new, changing landscape of cannabis. Offer to take them to the dispensary. Prep for your visit ahead of time by discussing questions and writing them down to ask a store associate once you arrive.
Making Grandparents Day Special
Celebrate Grandparents Day with a trip to Blue Oak, where you and your loved ones can enjoy an extensive product selection, educational content, and expert guidance from our store associates.
During the visit, take time to explore the various product options together and discuss what might be most suitable for your needs. Our knowledgeable staff can offer personalized recommendations and answer any questions you might have, making the experience both informative and reassuring.
To make the day even more special, consider stopping by a local coffee shop or cafe in Bloomfield after your visit. This gives you a chance to decompress, discuss what you learned during your visit, and enjoy some quality time together to boot.
What To Do On Grandparents’ Day With Cannabis
Grandparents’ Day is a wonderful occasion to spend quality time together. If approached thoughtfully, incorporating cannabis into the day can make it even more enjoyable.
Here are some fun and safe activities that are perfect for older adults who may be new to cannabis:
- Cozy Movie Night: Watch a favorite film or classic together at home. Create a comfy setting with snacks and blankets, and pair it with a mild dose of cannabis to enhance relaxation and enjoyment.
- Board Games or Card Games: Engage in simple and enjoyable games that everyone can participate in. Cannabis can add to the fun and laughter, making game night a delightful experience.
- Craft or DIY project: Spend time on a creative project, such as making homemade cards, scrapbooking, or painting. Choose something simple and enjoyable that allows for easy conversation and creativity.
Elevate Grandparents’ Day with Blue Oak
Navigating the conversation about cannabis for seniors can be rewarding, especially when approached with care and consideration.
From understanding the benefits of cannabis for pain management and mental health to selecting the right products and methods of consumption, it’s important to provide clear, respectful, and supportive information.
With the right approach, you can make Grandparents’ Day a special celebration that combines love, learning, and the benefits of cannabis.
For the most memorable Grandparents’ Day, consider visiting Blue Oak Dispensary in Bloomfield, New Jersey. Our knowledgeable staff can guide you and your grandparents through various products tailored to their needs, making the experience more informative and enjoyable.
