The Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center (ESAHEC) presents:
Cannabis Use and the Older Adult
Friday, Dec. 5
noon-3:45 p.m.
Virtual on Zoom
Register by Tuesday, Dec. 2
Presentation 1: “Legal Aspects of Cannabis Use and the Older Adult” | Annie Carver, JD
Current cannabis use rates among older adults is rising. This presentation will review the legal status of medical and non-medical cannabis and the legal implications for older adults who use cannabis. This presentation will also discuss the current policy gaps regarding older adult use of cannabis and the implications it may have for future public policy.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Understand the history of cannabis regulation and the current legal status of medical and non-medical cannabis use among adults.
- Understand the current legal risks and potential benefits associated with cannabis use.
- Know current policy gaps relative to older adults and why they matter.
Presentation 2: “High Expectations: The Medical Use of Cannabis in Older Adults” | Leah Sera, PharmD, MA, BCPS
Over the past decade, the use of cannabis and cannabis-based medicines to treat medical conditions has become more accepted and accessible. Older adults may turn to these therapies when traditional treatments fail, seeking holistic options or fewer side effects. This presentation provides an overview of cannabis-based medicine in older adults, mechanisms of action, evidence of effectiveness, and practical approaches for educating patients, caregivers, and health care providers.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Describe the function of the endocannabinoid system.
- Describe the effects of THC and CBD on the human body.
- Summarize the state of evidence supporting the medical use of cannabis.
- Distinguish types of cannabis available to patients.
- Discuss safety concerns with medical cannabis, including adverse effects, drug-drug and drug-disease interactions.
Presentation 3: "Non-Medical Cannabis Use and the Older Adult: Shifting Perceptions and Promoting Informed Choices" | Paulette S. Smith, MS, LCSW-C
This presentation explores the growing trend of non-medical cannabis use among older adults and the implications for mental health, safety, and social engagement. Smith will discuss ethical considerations, risk assessment, and harm reduction strategies tailored to this population. The session emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making, reducing stigma, and supporting professionals in having honest, evidence-based conversations about cannabis use in aging populations.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Identify key trends and motivations behind non-medical cannabis use among older adults.
- Discuss the ethical and professional implications of supporting older adult cannabis users.
- Apply harm reduction and psychoeducation strategies to reduce stigma and promote informed decision-making.
- Recognize signs of potential misuse or dependency in older adult populations.
REGISTRATION
- General Registration: $15
- Student Registration: Free
(Must use school email and advisor name when registering to have the registration fee waived.) - Geri-ED Registration: Free
(The Geri-ED code must be entered when registering to have the registration fee waived.) - Three CEUs: $45
(Those requesting CEUs must pay the CEU fee in addition to the applicable registration fee.)
CEUs: Maryland social workers; Maryland professional psychologists, counselors, and therapists; and all certified dementia practitioners and certified senior advisors can earn 3 CEUs.
ESAHEC is authorized by the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland to sponsor social work continuing education learning activities and maintains full responsibility for this program. This training qualifies for 3 Category I continuing education units and is a live, real-time, and interactive learning activity.
Geriatrics & Gerontology Education & Research (GGEAR) Program is an authorized sponsor for Category A Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for Maryland psychologists, counselors, and therapists and authorized sponsor for CEUs for all certified dementia practitioners and certified senior advisors.
Scholarships: ESAHEC has a limited number of scholarships available to waive the general registration fee. Please contact tcardillino@esahec.org for scholarship criteria and application process.
Cancellation Fee: A $5 fee will be charged on all cancellations of registration and CEU payments. No cancellations accepted after Dec. 2.
For information: Email Terry at tcardillino@esahec.org
A Certificate of Attendance will be provided to all participants.
photo: "Cannabis sativa" by M. Martin Vicente is licensed under CC BY 2.0.