By Angel Johansen - Certified Cannabis Educator

Amplifying Elderly Voices: Advocating for Personalized Care

Taking care of our seniors is something that touches all of us at some point. And you know what makes a real difference? Listening. It's like the secret ingredient. But sometimes, we all get so caught up in what we think we know, we forget that our elders have stories to share. Let's talk about why being their advocate matters so much.

The Art of Attentive Listening

Advocacy? It begins with a good ear. Too often, preconceptions about symptoms can overshadow the lived experiences of our elderly loved ones. Our seniors have lived through so much, and there's just no replacing the understanding that comes from truly hearing their journey.

I'll never forget the time my frustration reached its peak with my mom's providers. It was clear they weren't taking her situation as seriously as they should. I had had enough. She'd lost so much weight, having shed over twenty pounds in just two months, and couldn't stomach solid food anymore. I took my mom to the emergency room, and I decided to take matters into my own hands and pushed hard for more tests. After we got her admitted into the hospital, it was getting late, and the pharmacist hadn't even stopped by to talk about her meds, let alone prescribe new ones. My mom was in pain but hesitant to bring up her medical Cannabis gummies. We decided to have an honest conversation with the nurse. We let her know that the gummies were not just for pain relief but also to help my mom get a good night's sleep. The nurse, seeing the situation and understanding that the pharmacist hadn't addressed her medications, saw no harm in my mom taking her usual Cannabis dose. This was a huge relief for both of us, given the lingering stigma in the medical realm around using Cannabis for medicinal purposes versus recreational use.

Understanding Senior Hesitations

Let's consider why some seniors might hesitate to fully disclose their health issues.

Fear of Dependency: Seniors may worry that if they reveal the extent of their health issues, they will be seen as a burden to their family or caregivers. They may want to maintain their independence and not appear weak or incapable.

Stigma or Embarrassment: Some health issues, especially those related to mental health or sensitive topics like incontinence or sexual health, can be embarrassing or carry a social stigma. Seniors may feel uncomfortable discussing these matters with family members or healthcare professionals.

Concern About Worrying Loved Ones: Seniors may be hesitant to share the full extent of their health problems out of a desire to protect their loved ones from worrying or feeling stressed. They may not want to be a source of concern for their family members.

Fear of Losing Control: Sharing detailed information about their health may lead to decisions being made on their behalf, potentially taking away some of their autonomy. Seniors may want to maintain control over their own lives and healthcare decisions.

Lack of Awareness or Understanding: Some seniors may not fully grasp the severity of their health issues or may not realize the importance of certain details. They may downplay symptoms or not recognize the significance of certain signs.

It's important for family members and healthcare professionals to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment, where seniors feel comfortable discussing their health concerns openly. Building trust and demonstrating empathy can go a long way in encouraging seniors to share important details about their health. Additionally, involving seniors in their own healthcare decisions and respecting their autonomy can help address some of the concerns listed above.

Challenging Assumptions, Honoring Individuality

Assumptions can be like roadblocks in healthcare. They limit what we see, and that's not good news for our loved ones. There were moments when my mother's concerns were dismissed as the expected side effects of her existing conditions. It became clear that advocacy meant not only advocating for her care but also advocating for the recognition of her individuality and the potential for new, unrelated challenges.

Navigating the Cannabis Conversation

Now, let's address a challenge many seniors face in their healthcare journey - the fear of discussing Cannabis. This hesitation often stems from the enduring stigma surrounding Cannabis, creating a barrier to seeking information or sharing experiences. It's a fear deeply rooted in the worry of judgment, whether from healthcare providers or social circles.

However, as we break down these barriers, we must recognize the importance of open communication. Seniors should feel empowered to discuss their curiosity, questions, or experiences with Cannabis. Providers and friends alike need to foster an environment free of judgment, ensuring that seniors feel safe in sharing their thoughts.

Disclosing Cannabis use, if it happens, becomes paramount. It's not just about legality; it's about comprehensive healthcare. Cannabis can have interactions with medications or impact certain medical conditions. Full disclosure equips healthcare providers with the necessary information to tailor their care plans effectively. It's a step towards personalized healthcare that acknowledges all aspects of a senior's well-being.

Challenge assumptions not only within the healthcare system but also within our conversations, so seniors' questions about Cannabis are valid, and their experiences are worth sharing. Providers and friends need to listen without judgment, recognizing that this dialogue is a pathway to better understanding and, ultimately, better healthcare.

Embracing Change: Seniors and the Rise of Medical Cannabis

In an era where seniors are actively navigating conversations around Cannabis, a notable trend is emerging. According to an August 2023 report (1) by The Hill (de Visé), approximately 5 percent of individuals over 65 in the United States have turned to medical Cannabis, a number that has been steadily increasing in recent years. This isn't just a statistic; it's a testament to the shifting landscape of senior healthcare.

Seniors, once hesitant to explore Cannabis due to societal stigma, are now embracing it as a viable option for managing pain and finding relief. Studies, including one by UC San Diego Health (2), reveal that many seniors are discovering that Cannabis offers an alternative approach to pain management and symptom relief, often surpassing conventional treatments in efficacy.

This shift underscores the imperative for healthcare providers to lend a compassionate ear, to truly understand the unique challenges faced by seniors, and to be open to considering Cannabis as a legitimate option in their healthcare toolkit. Medical Cannabis is not only proving effective in pain management but is also enhancing sleep quality and managing anxiety, offering a holistic approach to well-being. Many seniors are finding that Cannabis provides these benefits without the undesirable side effects often associated with traditional medications.

Empowering Providers Through Shared Knowledge

Let's face it, advocacy isn't just about our own stories. It's about pushing for a change in how things are done in healthcare. It's about making sure our providers really get it.

So, there I was, not just fighting for my mom, but also having some real talks with her healthcare providers. We needed to break through the walls of assumptions and get them to see what was really going on. Those conversations weren't just about my mom. They were about changing the game for geriatric care as a whole by sharing what we knew about Cannabis. We were equipping healthcare teams with invaluable knowledge for improved senior care.

Bridging the Gap: Seniors Sharing Wisdom

In this era of healthcare, information is power. And who holds a wealth of valuable knowledge? Our seniors, especially when it comes to their own well-being. It's time to recognize that they not only deserve a voice but also have insights that can be invaluable to providers, family members, and others who stand to benefit from their experiences.

Consider my mother's journey with medical Cannabis. A few days before we decided to go to the ER and have her admitted into the hospital, I gave her some 4:1 suppositories that I had made for her. While she may not have taken the suppositories long enough to see the full benefits, her feedback on the relief she experienced—even in those initial moments—speaks volumes. She noted how the carefully crafted 4:1 suppositories provided a better and more sustained night's sleep compared to her usual dispensary-bought gummies. This revelation not only illuminated the potential of alternative Cannabis forms but also underscored the need for open conversations about its effectiveness. It's a testament to the power of sharing, and a reminder that every senior has a story worth telling.

When seniors feel empowered to discuss their experiences with Cannabis, they contribute not only to their own well-being but to the collective knowledge that can shape better healthcare for all.

Crafting a Legacy of Compassion

Advocacy isn't simply about managing symptoms; it's about truly listening to the voices of our seniors. As the senior population continues to grow, it's imperative that we adapt our approach. Each and every senior deserves to feel heard and valued. This goes beyond providing care; it's about the compassion that accompanies it. Within this landscape, Cannabis advocacy emerges as a crucial component, ensuring quality healthcare by offering alternative solutions that can significantly enhance their well-being. It's a revolution in healthcare, challenging assumptions and championing a future where every senior is seen, heard, and cherished on their unique journey.

References

1. Visé, Daniel de. “Senior Citizens Are the Fastest-Growing Cannabis Clientele.” The Hill, The Hill, 17 Aug. 2023, thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4156950-senior-citizens-are-the-fastest-growing-cannabis-clientele/. https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/4156950-senior-citizens-are-the-fastest-growing-cannabis-clientele/

2. Brubaker, Michelle, and Scott LaFee. “Study Finds Older Adults Using Cannabis to Treat Common Health Conditions.” UC San Diego Health, 7 Oct. 2020, health.ucsd.edu/news/press-releases/2020-10-07-study-finds-older-adults-using-cannabis-to-treat-common-health-conditions/,  https://health.ucsd.edu/news/press-releases/2020-10-07-study-finds-older-adults-using-cannabis-to-treat-common-health-conditions/

About Angel Johansen:

Angel Johansen, a compassionate Cannabis educator, specializes in empowering women on their journey toward intimacy and embracing the wisdom that accompanies age. With a passion for creating safe spaces and fostering a sense of community, Angel guides women through the nuanced landscape of Cannabis, offering knowledge, support, and a deep understanding of their unique experiences. Her mission is to lead women into their wise years with grace, ensuring they navigate the realms of intimacy and Cannabis with confidence, informed choices, and a profound sense of connection.

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Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.