Older Veterans Using Cannabis in Arizona: What the Research Really Says

It was after a quiet sunrise, while he was making coffee, that my neighbor — a retired Army medic — told me why he’d started using cannabis.

“I stopped taking two different pills,” he said, “because I felt like they were stealing my mornings. This helps me sleep. It helps me move without waking up in pain. I feel more like myself again.”

He’s not alone. Recent research shows that cannabis use among older U.S. veterans is rising — many report using it for pain relief, better sleep, and to manage PTSD or anxiety. For veterans who’ve lived decades of service, surgeries, and long-term prescriptions, cannabis is increasingly seen as a way to reclaim comfort and rest.

But along with promise come real questions: Is it safe? Could it interact with other meds? What does the VA say? And how should veterans living in Arizona approach medical cannabis responsibly?

Below, we walk through the research, the benefits and risks, and practical guidance for veterans and their families — with local context for Arizona and clear steps you can take today.

What the latest research is showing

A large recent study of older veterans found that over 1 in 10 veterans aged roughly 65–84 reported cannabis use in the past year — primarily for pain (about 56%) and sleep problems (about 16%). The same research noted that a portion of users met criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD), particularly those who inhaled cannabis rather than using edibles.

Key takeaway: veterans are turning to cannabis for real reasons, but medical oversight is essential.

Other studies — including clinical work on PTSD and sleep — have shown that cannabis can reduce nightmares and improve sleep in some patients, and many veterans self-report improved quality of life when using medical cannabis under guidance. Still, research is mixed: some studies suggest benefits, while others warn about dependence, cognitive effects, or worsening outcomes in certain subgroups. That’s why individualized care matters.

The VA position — what veterans should know

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not automatically deny benefits to veterans who use state-legal medical marijuana. The VA encourages open conversations — veterans are urged to tell their VA clinicians about cannabis use so their care can be safely managed.

Important: VA clinicians cannot prescribe cannabis because it remains a Schedule I substance federally.

There’s also growing momentum in Congress to fund more veteran-focused cannabis research and create legal protections — a sign that policy is shifting toward safer, evidence-driven pathways for veteran patients.

Why veterans try cannabis: real reasons, real relief

Veterans report turning to cannabis for several practical reasons:

• Chronic pain: Years of injuries, joint wear, surgeries, and nerve pain lead many to seek alternatives to long-term opioids.

• Sleep disruption: Pain, nightmares, and anxiety make deep sleep difficult — cannabis helps some patients fall and stay asleep.

• PTSD & anxiety: Some veterans report fewer intrusive memories and calmer nights, though responses vary.

• Fewer side effects: Compared with some pharmaceuticals, patients often describe cannabis as having fewer daytime sedating effects when dosed carefully.

These reasons are backed by peer-reviewed studies and national surveys, but they must be balanced with careful monitoring and medical support.

Risks older veterans should take seriously

No treatment is risk-free. For older veterans considering cannabis, watch for:

• Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD): Higher risk with inhaled products; early screening is key.

• Medication interactions: Cannabis, especially CBD, can interact with blood thinners, seizure meds, and other prescriptions. Always talk with your clinician first.

• Cognitive and balance effects: Older adults may be more sensitive to dizziness or confusion — increasing fall risk. Start low and go slow.

• Variable product quality: Avoid unregulated sources. Use state-licensed dispensaries with tested products and clear labeling.

Practical, veteran-friendly guidance

If you’re a veteran in Arizona thinking about cannabis, here’s a safe roadmap:

1. Talk to your healthcare team first. Share your interest with your VA provider or primary care clinician so they can advise on interactions and monitoring.

2. Consider a medical approach. Arizona’s medical program gives access to tested products, medical guidance, and often better pricing than the adult-use market. Clinics like Trichrome Care Clinic can help evaluate your condition and guide MMJ card applications.

3. Start low and go slow. Microdosing and non-inhaled formats (tinctures or low-dose edibles) reduce risk, especially for older adults.

4. Prefer tested, labeled products. Only buy from licensed dispensaries. Check THC/CBD levels and avoid unknown sources.

5. Watch for signs of CUD. Interference with relationships, sleep, memory, or daily responsibilities is a red flag. Seek help early.

How Trichrome Care Clinic helps Arizona veterans

At Trichrome Care Clinic (Mesa, AZ), we support veterans with:

• Thorough, nonjudgmental evaluations of pain, meds, and mental health.

• Personalized product and dosing plans focused on safety.

• Coordination with your VA or primary care team for integrated care.

• Education on storage, dosing schedules, and recognizing problematic use.

We serve veterans across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, and other Arizona communities, helping them weigh benefits and risks and apply for an Arizona medical marijuana card if appropriate. Our goal isn’t to push cannabis — it’s to help you make safe, informed choices.

A real moment that matters

A veteran came in with chronic shoulder pain after multiple surgeries. Skeptical, he had been on opioids and felt like a shell of himself. Together, we created a plan: low-CBD tincture at night, topical for daytime soreness, and clear metrics to judge progress. Three months later he said,

“My granddaughter says I laugh more now.”

Not a clinical endpoint, but exactly the human result we aim for.

Final takeaways

• Cannabis use among Arizona veterans is rising, mainly for pain and sleep, reflecting gaps in current care.

• Evidence shows potential benefits, but risks exist, especially for older adults and those on multiple medications.

• Trusted clinicians, tested products, low starting doses, and careful monitoring are key.

If you’re a veteran curious about cannabis — or want safer, evidence-driven care — Trichrome Care Clinic is here to help. Book a consultation and get a clear, compassionate plan tailored to your needs.

📍 Trichrome Care Clinic | Mesa, AZ — Serving veterans across the Valley

🌐 Book online: www.trichromecareclinic.com