Can marijuana help the baby boomer generation become more productive?

Can marijuana help North American adults be more productive as their life expectancy increases?

Canadians have a longer life expectancy (52 years more) than Americans (49.3 years more). But both are an increase in life expectancy that allows for longer lives and more years to have fun and be productive. While productivity can mean work, it can also mean enjoying life, family, and passions. Can marijuana help baby boomers increase their productivity? As legalization slowly advances across the country, more citizens over 65 are taking a second look at the plant and starting to use it for chronic pain, intimacy, and sleep.

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Both the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians agree that cannabis has medical benefits. This is not surprising, as the majority of older cannabis users say they use the plant for medicinal rather than recreational reasons. Marijuana can help older adults be more physically and mentally productive so they can enjoy their retirement to the fullest.

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While baby boomers still use cannabis primarily for medicinal reasons, there are more and more who see it as an alternative to the more harmful alcohol. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of medical marijuana make it easier to exercise and allow for a more physical life. A good night's sleep and relief from anxiety and depression are other key factors in keeping a clear head to make the most of the day ahead.

Millennials make up the largest share of full-time workers, with 49.5 million employees, followed by Generation X at 42.8 million. Baby Boomers and Generation Z are tied at just over 17 million. However, Boomers are experienced workers, and a few extra years can make a difference in a strong economy. And while many companies struggle with transitions caused by changing technologies and trends, they can be a key driver of the economy.

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A large majority of baby boomers who use cannabis believe it relieves pain and has medicinal benefits. Baby boomers are also very positive about it if it can help a sick loved one: 97% support using it in such cases. So the generation that continued the war on drugs is now seeing the value and using it to make the most of their final years.

Interestingly, this generation came of age when weed was the thing in the era of free love, but the drug war put us off it. Even though they're returning to marijuana, they're staying true to their roots. Baby boomers are more likely to buy flower or bud and follow the traditional consumption route of smoking or vaping.

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