What Albertans need to know about cannabis

Whether you call it ‘weed’, ‘pot’, or ‘cannabis’ reveals more about you than you might think. Your choice of slang isn’t just a great tell on when you were college-aged; it also may influence the kinds of cannabis related information you might seek at this stage of your life.

Cannabis affects everyone differently, and age and experience are among the many factors that can contribute to your overall experience. Cannabis related considerations can vary depending on life circumstances from being a college student, parent, or easing into retirement. From understanding how your body processes THC, to finding a format that fits into your busy routine, each stage of life brings its own considerations.

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis, commonly known as AGLC, regulates the province’s cannabis market and leads public education initiatives designed to reduce harm and promote responsible consumption. Helping Albertans navigate the legal landscape, trusted sources like AGLC’s CannabisSense 4 in 20 initiative bring together experts, from physicians and public health researchers to nurses and industry professionals, to help break down common questions and bust myths about cannabis so people can make informed decisions at every life stage.

Adults under 25: navigating choices and boundaries

Weed might be legal for adults 18 and over in Alberta, but if you’re under 25, there are a few things you should know before lighting up a joint or trying your first soft chew. Your brain is still developing well into your mid-20s, particularly the area that controls judgment, memory, and decision-making. Consuming cannabis during this time can affect how you think, focus, and learn, which might make school, work, or even daily tasks feel harder than they need to be.

For those who do decide to consume, moderation matters. Experts recommend opting for lower-THC products, limiting your use, and avoiding smoking and vaping. Yes, even vaping, which is often seen as a “safer” option, isn’t risk-free. High-THC vape products can hit harder than expected, and frequent vapers can develop a high tolerance and find themselves searching for stronger products.

Students should also be aware that many universities, colleges, and residences have restrictions around cannabis consumption on campus. Even where weed is legal, it may be prohibited in residence buildings or on school grounds. Knowing the rules can help avoid disciplinary issues or fines.

Adults 25 to 55: family, work, and long-term considerations

For adults aged 25 to 55, understanding the variety of cannabis products and formats can help you make choices that suit your preferences and lifestyle. Drinks offer a controlled way to pace consumption, topicals provide targeted relief without psychoactive effects, and concentrates deliver higher potency for experienced users, all with the added peace of mind that comes from a tested, regulated source.

In households with children or pets, safe storage is non-negotiable. Keep your stash stored securely, out of sight and reach, ideally in a locked container to avoid accidental ingestion. This applies to all forms of cannabis, but especially to edibles that may resemble food or candy.

Talking to children and teens about cannabis is another challenge. Clear, age-appropriate conversations that explain what cannabis is, avoid scare tactics, and focus on honesty are the most effective and can help build trust and understanding.

Adults over 55: health, medications, and changing cannabis

Seniors are one of the fastest-growing groups of cannabis consumers in Canada. Some may be curious about cannabis for the first time, while others may be reuniting with their old friend Mary Jane after decades.

For this group, it’s important to recognize that your tolerance may not be what it used to be. Not only are today’s legal cannabis products often much more potent than what was available in the past, but your body may process cannabis differently as it ages. Lower tolerance, changes in metabolism, and existing health conditions can all influence how cannabis affects you after 55.

Seniors are also encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if taking prescription medications, because cannabis can interact with some medicines, potentially changing how they work or increasing the potential for adverse effects.

Staying informed and making responsible choices

Cannabis isn’t one-size-fits-all, and what works in your 20s might not fit your 50s. The key is knowing your limits, choosing products that align with your lifestyle, and staying curious about how cannabis affects you.

No matter your age, it’s worth reassessing what works for you from time to time, whether that means dialling things back, trying a new format, or rethinking when and why you partake. Trusted resources like AGLC’s CannabisSense 4 in 20 initiative provide clear, evidence-based information to help Albertans make informed choices, at any age.