No. CBD is not the same as marijuana.
CBD (cannabidiol) can come from the hemp plant, which is legally different from marijuana. Hemp is required by federal law to contain very low levels of THC (the compound that causes impairment). So while CBD and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant family, they are not the same product, not the same experience, and not used the same way.

Key Differences

• CBD (Hemp) → Non-intoxicating, used for comfort and wellness
• Marijuana → Contains higher THC, can cause impairment
• CBD ≠ “getting high” — it does not create the same psychoactive effects

Why People Get Confused

They both come from the cannabis plant family, just like lemons and limes are both citrus—but they’re not the same fruit. Hemp and marijuana are simply different varieties with different purposes.

For millions of seniors, staying active and comfortable is key to maintaining independence and quality of life. Over the past several years, CBD has become a trusted part of many seniors’ wellness routines, particularly for everyday aches, joint discomfort, and recovery after activity.

Recent surveys estimate that approximately 15% of seniors now use CBD products as part of their wellness regimen—often seeking plant-based alternatives that fit into a broader, non-intoxicating lifestyle approach.

The body has something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
It helps regulate:

• Comfort and physical tension
• Sleep routines
• Calm and stress responses
• Immune balance
• General sense of well-being

For many seniors, this system naturally slows with age. CBD doesn’t overwrite it — it nudges it back toward balance.

Think of it like giving a tired system the support it needs to keep working smoothly.

CBD isn’t designed to block sensations or “knock someone out.”
Instead, it works more like a messenger:

• Encouraging the body to pay attention to comfort signals
• Helping calm overactive responses
• Supporting relaxation without impairment

For many seniors, that subtle approach feels better than products that are too strong or sedating.

A lot of older adults report that they like CBD because it may offer support without:

• Foggy or disoriented feelings
• Losing control or feeling “altered”
• Having to take high amounts to notice anything

CBD can fit into daily routines — morning, after activity, or before sleep — without getting in the way of independence.

CBD should help you feel relief and CBD shouldn’t make a senior feel:

• Out of control
• Impaired
• Disconnected
• Sedated without expectation

If it does, the dose is likely too high—or it’s the wrong product.

Topicals (Creams, Gels, Sprays)

Fast, targeted support — applied only where you need it.

• Begin working quickly compared to other formats
• Support is focused on the specific area where applied
• Generally lasts around up to 4 hours depending on use
• Ideal for knees, hands, back, shoulders, or activity-related discomfort
• Great first step for seniors who want on-demand, non-overwhelming relief

Best for: localized discomfort, daily mobility, post-activity support

Oral Products (Capsules, Oils, Gummies)

Whole-body support that lasts longer.

• Absorbed through digestion and may support the body more broadly
• Typically take longer to notice (30–90 minutes)
• Effects may last up to 6–8 hours depending on metabolism
• Helpful for seniors looking for routine comfort or sleep support
• “Start low and go slow” is the best approach for finding the right fit

Best for: sleep routines, whole-body balance, consistent daily support

Transdermal Patches

Extended relief with either targeted or full-body support.

• Absorb gradually through the skin for up to 12 hours of steady relief
• Can be placed directly on the area for strong localized support
• Can also be applied to venous areas (inner arm, back, shoulder) for more systemic benefit
• Helpful for seniors who want continuing support without reapplying products

Best for: chronic, recurring discomfort; longer outings; overnight use

Oral CBD products—like oils, capsules, gummies, or softgels—work differently than topicals. They go through the digestive system and may affect the body more broadly. Basic Jane offer CBD mints and chews. For seniors using or considering CBD, here are the key things to know:

Start low and go slow...

Everyone absorbs CBD differently, especially as we age.
Bodies change, metabolisms slow, and sensitivities increase, so it’s best to begin small.

General starting approach should be:

• Start with a low amount (e.g., 5–10 mg)
• Stay at that level for several days
• Increase only if needed

This helps you find your “sweet spot” without taking more than necessary.

Give it time to work...

Oral CBD is not instant. It has to:

• Digest
• Absorb
• Circulate

Timing seniors often report:

• 30–90 minutes to feel initial effects
• More noticeable benefit after several days of consistent use

Consistency matters more than taking a lot all at once.

It Can Interact With Some Medications

This does not mean seniors can’t use CBD — but it does mean checking is smart.

If someone is taking medications processed by the liver (like blood thinners, heart medications, or cholesterol meds), CBD may affect how those medications are metabolized.

Simple rule of thumb:
If a doctor or pharmacist has ever said, “Avoid grapefruit with this medication,” then check before adding CBD.

Look for Products With Testing & Transparency

What matters most is knowing what’s in the product.

Seniors should look for:

• A COA (lab test) for every batch
• THC levels clearly listed (especially if avoiding impairment)
• Clear serving size instructions
• Ingredients they can actually recognize

If a product doesn’t provide a lab test → skip it.

All Basic Jane products are tested.

For seniors with specific spots of discomfort (knees, hands, back), topical CBD is popular because:

• It stays where you put it
• It doesn’t circulate through the whole body
• It can be paired with carriers (like menthol, MSM, or alcohol) that help absorption

This is often why seniors prefer creams, gels, and sprays instead of gummies or oils. Topical products work quick within minutes and last roughly 4 hours.

Yes — seniors are at the heart of why Basic Jane exists.

Basic Jane began when our co-founder Kersten’s mother, a senior living with arthritis in her knees, needed relief that actually helped her stay active. We formulated our very first products specifically for her—to support pain, mobility, and everyday comfort without anything harsh, overwhelming, or complicated to use.

From that moment on, seniors have shaped our mission.

A Brand Built With Seniors in Mind

Today, more than 60% of Basic Jane customers are over the age of 55. Their feedback directly influences how we:

• Formulate each product for comfort and ease of use
• Test absorption and consistency for predictable relief
• Manufacture with purity, traceability, and clean ingredients
• Choose carriers that help CBD actually reach where it needs to go

Our products didn’t start in a boardroom—they started in a real family, for a real need. And that continues to guide us.

Seniors tell us they prefer Basic Jane because our products are:

• 🧴 Easy to apply (sprays, gels, creams)
• 💧 Clean and simple ingredient lists
• 🧪 Developed with researchers & nursing professionals
• 🔬 Backed by the first U.S. cannabis research license
• ✔️ Consistent from bottle to bottle

Most importantly: they help people get back to living.

At this time, we can share that:

• Basic Jane products are manufactured in compliance with applicable state laws
  
• All products are third-party tested for quality and consistency
  
• These two criteria—lawful manufacturing and testing—were specifically referenced during the initial press conference
  

As federal agencies release additional rules and clarifications, we will evaluate next steps and keep our community informed every step of the way.

We are still awaiting final guidance, but here’s what we know right now:

Basic Jane is actively preparing for senior CBD credits to begin as early as April, pending final confirmation. Because the system is still being built, eligibility is not automatic — it will depend on the program rules released at the federal level.

How to Check Your Status

1. Take our short qualification quiz – it helps determine if you may be eligible based on the current guidance.
2. Sign up for notifications – as states and senior groups come online, we will let you know when your area becomes eligible.
3. Watch for updates from Medicare & AARP – they are expected to post guidance as details are finalized.

Next Steps

• We are rapidly establishing information and enrollment tools.
• Once your group, region, or clinic is officially activated, we will notify you.
• Our goal is to help seniors use credits with confidence as soon as systems go live.

📅 Target timeline: We expect credits to begin rolling out by April, based on current announcements and anticipated policy timing.
(Dates may shift depending on final federal instructions.)

Based on recent federal announcements, the government is planning a pilot program under Medicare that could allow eligible seniors to receive up to $500 per year in coverage for qualifying hemp-derived CBD products.

👉 Timeline:
Officials have indicated that this pilot program could begin as early as April 2026, though final details — including how to enroll, who qualifies, and what products are covered — have not yet been released. Marijuana Moment

That means:

• April 2026 is the earliest expected start date based on current federal projections and administrative planning. 
• Specific eligibility rules and rollout details are still pending from Medicare and CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services). 
• As rules are finalized, organizations like Medicare and AARP will provide guidance on qualifications.

Until the official guidance is published (which may include forms, enrollment requirements, and product standards), the program remains anticipated rather than fully implemented.

Yes. While the $500 CBD credit program is still being finalized, there are a few smart steps seniors can take now so they’re ready when the program begins.

1. Talk to Your Doctor or Pharmacist

Let them know you may want to use CBD once credits are active.

• Ask if CBD is appropriate for you
• Confirm if it may interact with medications you already take
• Mention if you take any medications with a “grapefruit warning” (a good sign to double-check)

This isn’t asking for approval — it’s just preparing your care team so there are no surprises later.

2. Keep Basic Health Documentation Handy

If credits require enrollment, having these ready may help:

• Medicare or Medicare Advantage info
• List of current prescriptions
• Any allergy or sensitivity notes
• Your preferred pharmacy or clinic contact

3. Identify CBD Products You’re Interested In

Start paying attention to:

• Which products seem most helpful (topical, oral, patch)
• What types fit your needs (pain, sleep, calm, mobility)

If you’re not sure where to start, a quiz or product finder helps.

4. Sign Up for Notifications

Basic Jane — will notify you as states and senior groups go live. That means:

• No guessing
• No waiting for confusing government updates
• You’ll know where to start when your region activates

5. Stay Tuned to Medicare & AARP Updates

These two sources are expected to provide the most reliable public information when the program is finalized.