Date/Time
3 CEs
Presentation 1: “Legal Aspects of Cannabis Use and the Older Adult”, Annie Carver, JD
DESCRIPTION
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
DESCRIPTION
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 healthcare 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", Dr. Paulette S. Smith, MS, LCSW-C
DESCRIPTION
This presentation explores the growing trend of non-medical cannabis use among older adults and the implications for mental health, safety, and social engagement. Dr. Paulette 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.
By attending this conference, Maryland Social Workers, Maryland Psychologists, Counselors and Therapists, All Certified Dementia Practitioners, and Certified Senior Advisors are eligible to earn 3 CEUs
Location: Virtual
Sponsored By:
The Eastern Shore Area Health Education Center (ESAHEC), University of Maryland Geriatrics & Gerontology Education & Research (GGEAR) Program, Johns Hopkins Medicine
Cost:
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.)
For questions, email Terry Cardillino at tcardillino@esahec.org