Local & Community
420 Holiday Sees Surge in Senior Cannabis Use Across Coachella Valley
On April 20—known as 420, the unofficial cannabis holiday—dispensaries across the Coachella Valley are seeing a surge in sales, with one notable trend standing out: increasing use among older adults.
At The Leaf on El Paseo, staff say nearly 60% of their customers are now 65 or older. Many seniors are purchasing a wide range of products, including gummies, flower, tinctures, and topical creams, often tailored for sleep, pain relief, or relaxation.
Products containing varying levels of THC, CBD, and CBN are especially popular among older customers seeking alternatives to traditional prescription medications. Some say they use cannabis to manage chronic pain or sleep issues, while others describe it as a way to improve overall quality of life.
The growing trend mirrors national data showing increased cannabis use among older Americans. Industry observers say this shift is driven in part by expanding legalization, changing attitudes, and greater awareness of potential therapeutic benefits.
While some health experts continue to caution about possible risks, many seniors say cannabis has become a preferred option for managing everyday discomforts. As 420 celebrations continue, dispensaries across the region expect demand to remain strong throughout the day.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 20, 2026
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