As cannabis-related traffic crashes continue to rise, new research suggests that prevention campaigns may be overlooking a vital group: older adults. Public messaging about cannabis-impaired driving has primarily focused on younger people. Yet, the study shows that a significant number of adults aged over 50 also drive soon after using cannabis, at a time when impairment from THC is still likely. The findings challenge the widespread perception that “driving while high” is primarily a youth problem and call for broader, age-inclusive road safety strategies.
The study found that around 20% of cannabis users aged 50 and over reported driving within two hours of using the drug at least once in the past year. This window is particularly risky, as THC can impair reaction time, attention and judgement, all of which are essential for safe driving. Older adults may underestimate these effects, especially if they consider themselves experienced drivers or believe cannabis to be less impairing than alcohol. However, the research makes clear that age and driving experience do not eliminate the cognitive and motor impacts of THC.
The research was conducted by a team at the University of Michigan, led by addiction psychologist Erin E. Bonar. The findings were published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence and are based on data from the National Poll on Healthy Aging. While earlier analyses highlighted cannabis use among older adults, this latest paper takes a deeper look at how often and why people over 50 may be driving after using cannabis.
Specific patterns emerged that help identify higher-risk groups. Adults over 50 who used cannabis daily or nearly daily were about three times more likely to report driving after use than those who used it rarely. Those who used cannabis for mental health or mood-related reasons were roughly twice as likely to drive after using it. The study also found a gender difference, with men over 50 more likely than women in the same age group to report post-use driving. These findings suggest that targeted messaging could be particularly valuable for frequent users and those using cannabis to manage mental health concerns.
At the same time, the researchers stress that the issue extends beyond a small subset of users. Just over one-fifth of adults aged 50 and above reported using cannabis in the past year, with usage more common among those aged 50 to 64 than among those over 65. Patterns of use varied widely, ranging from daily use to once or twice a year. Notably, there were no significant differences in post-cannabis driving based on age group, income, race, or whether recreational cannabis was legal in the person’s state, reinforcing the case for broad-based public health messaging.
The study also highlights the need for age-specific guidance that reflects the realities of ageing. Older adults are more likely to experience slower reaction times, take prescription medications and be exposed to stronger cannabis products than those available earlier in their lives. The researchers suggest that health care providers and public health agencies should encourage practical strategies, such as using cannabis only at times when driving is unlikely, planning alternative transport, and discussing evidence-based treatments for conditions like sleep or mental health problems. Taken together, the findings underline that reducing cannabis-impaired driving requires attention not just to young people, but to drivers of all ages.
More information: Erin E. Bonar et al, Driving after cannabis consumption among US adults ages 50 years and older: A short communication, Drug and Alcohol Dependence. DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2025.112985
Journal information: Drug and Alcohol Dependence Provided by Michigan Medicine – University of Michigan
