Golden Years: Medicinal Cannabis in Geriatric Care

Join A/Prof Peter Gonski, leading geriatrician and Director of Aged Care and Rehab at SESLHD, for an evidence-based exploration of medicinal cannabis in older adults.

About the webinar

As Australia’s population ages, healthcare professionals are increasingly managing complex, chronic conditions in older adults—many of which remain difficult to treat with conventional therapies alone. This webinar, presented by Associate Professor Peter Gonski, explores the emerging role of medicinal cannabis in geriatric care, particularly for symptoms such as chronic pain, behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), sleep disturbance, and anxiety.

Drawing on evidence, clinical experience, and real-world case studies, A/Prof Gonski will guide participants through key considerations in prescribing medicinal cannabis to older patients. The session also covers age-related pharmacological changes, safety considerations, drug interactions, access pathways, and practical tips for monitoring and deprescribing. This is an essential educational opportunity for prescribers working in general practice, aged care, and multidisciplinary teams supporting older adults.

Learning Outcomes

Describe the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and how age-related changes affect the metabolism and impact of cannabis-based medicines.

Identify appropriate therapeutic indications for medicinal cannabis in the elderly, including pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and dementia-related behaviours.

Evaluate safety considerations including adverse effects, falls risk, drug interactions, and contraindications in geriatric patients.

Apply evidence-based prescribing strategies including product selection (THC vs CBD), titration, monitoring, and deprescribing in older adults.

Interpret real-world case studies and study data to support informed, compliant prescribing in aged care settings.

About the speaker

Associate Professor Peter Gonski is a highly respected geriatrician with over three decades of clinical experience in caring for older adults. He serves as Director of Aged Care and Rehabilitation Services for South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD) and holds a Conjoint Professorship at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). A/Prof Gonski is also a consultant at Kareena Private Hospital, where he specialises in general medicine, geriatric care, and rehabilitation medicine. Known for his compassionate and holistic approach, A/Prof Gonski focuses on the unique and often complex health needs of elderly patients. He is deeply committed to enhancing the quality of life for older adults through personalised, evidence-based care. His clinical work is complemented by ongoing contributions to education, research, and advocacy in geriatric medicine. A/Prof Gonski is actively involved in mentoring medical students and junior doctors, and regularly presents at professional conferences and forums. He is a strong advocate for integrated aged care services and has a particular interest in innovative therapies that address behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia, chronic pain, and frailty. With a deep understanding of the challenges facing ageing populations, A/Prof Gonski continues to influence the future of geriatric care in Australia through his leadership, teaching, and patient-centred practice.

Webinar

When: Tuesday 29 July 2025

Time: 7:00 pm

Cost: Free

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Claim 1 CPD Hour

Medihuanna is a CPD approved education provider, and this activity has been approved by the RACGP. Upon completing this activity, you will be eligible to claim CPD hours. The activity will include the following CPD allocation which will be uploaded to the RACGP dashboard.