Older Adults Who Consume Cannabis Show Similar Cognitive Performance to Non-Users, NORML Analysis Finds

A recent NORML analysis, published on September 8, 2025, reveals that older adults who have used cannabis in the past six months perform on par with non-users in neuropsychological tests. The findings suggest no discernible cognitive detriment among recent older cannabis users compared to their peers.

What the Analysis Shows

NORML’s review of neuropsychological testing data reports that older adults who reported cannabis use within the last six months showed no differences in cognitive performance when compared to abstainers.

This reinforces earlier evidence that moderate, later-life cannabis use is not linked to significant long-term cognitive decline, particularly when use does not meet criteria for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD).

Context from Published Research

The results align with an array of research across age groups:

• NORML’s fact-sheets and past analyses indicate no causal link between cannabis exposure and persistent cognitive impairment in adolescence or young adulthood.

• A recent peer-reviewed study in the Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society (September 2025) found no domain-level cognitive differences between older adults (past six months users vs. non-users), except that individuals reporting problematic cannabis use (as measured by CUDIT-R) performed worse on memory tasks.

These findings suggest that cognitive risks may be tied more to misuse or dependency symptoms, rather than cannabis use per se.

Contrasting Findings: Elevated Risk in Acute-Care Cases

Not all recent findings are reassuring. Several new studies highlight potential risks, especially in older adults engaging in heavy or problematic cannabis use:

• A JAMA Neurology study found that older adults who required acute care due to cannabis use faced a 23% higher dementia risk over five years, compared to those hospitalized for other reasons—and 72% higher compared to the general population.

• Additional coverage echoes similar concerns, noting that cannabis-related hospital visits among those 65+ have surged, and these individuals show elevated dementia diagnoses.

These findings, while observational and not proving causation, underscore potential harms linked with severe or acute-use patterns.

Expert Guidance & Cautionary Notes

Experts urge prudence, not alarm, with current evidence:

• Psychiatrists and geriatric clinicians cautiously note age-related pharmacokinetics, polypharmacy, and altered sensitivity to THC may elevate risk for falls, cognitive effects, or injury.

• A 2025 mini-review on CBD and cognition highlights the potential of CBD's neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties—but stresses the lack of robust human trials in older adults, recommending more rigorous research before drawing firm conclusions.

Looking Forward

The NORML analysis and supportive studies suggest that:

• Moderate, recent cannabis use in older adults—without problematic patterns—may have negligible cognitive effects.

• Problematic or acute-use scenarios, especially requiring medical attention, may correlate with increased cognitive and dementia risks.

• Further research is needed: Longitudinal studies clarifying use patterns, THC vs. CBD composition, administration routes, and individual health backgrounds will be crucial in crafting informed guidelines for older users.

As more older adults explore cannabis for chronic pain, sleep, anxiety, or comfort, evidence-based guidance tailored to their unique physiological needs is more important than ever.

NORML’s September 8, 2025 analysis offers cautious reassurance—but also a critical reminder: cannabis isn't inherently harmful to cognition in older adults—but patterns matter. Use responsibly, stay informed, and consult healthcare professionals, especially when managing multiple health conditions or medications.