Cannabis, self-ratings of cognition and driving behaviour among older adults: an exploratory study

Introduction Despite cannabis use increasing among older adults, scant research has explored the subjective effects of cannabis (both prescribed and non-prescribed) on cognitive and driving-related skills in older adults, and how these relate to driving following cannabis consumption. This study explored the nature of cannabis use (both prescribed and non-prescribed) in older adults and self-ratings of perceived cognitive and driving-related competence. In addition, this study aimed to identify factors that predict driving wait times following cannabis consumption among this cohort. Method A total of 283 participants aged 60 to 78 years ( M age = 66 years) completed an online survey, comprising of questions relating to cannabis use (both prescribed and non-prescribed), self-ratings of perceived cognition and driving behaviours/competence following cannabis consumption, and driving wait times following consumption. Results Participants reported using cannabis for the first time at the age of 20 years. Ninety-six per cent reported using cannabis regularly (at least weekly). Further, 58% of the sample reported current prescribed medicinal cannabis use and 70% of the sample reported non-prescribed use. Earlier age of onset of cannabis use and higher self-ratings of perceived cognition/driving competence significantly increased the odds of driving within four hours of consuming cannabis (by 3% and 22% respectively). Further, holding a medicinal cannabis prescription reduced the odds of driving within four hours of consuming cannabis by 46%. Conclusion The findings from this study provide insights into the nature of cannabis use in older adults, and the factors that influence driving wait times following cannabis consumption among this cohort.