There’s no denying that cannabis packaging plays a crucial role in marijuana brands. Not only does it protect and market products, but it also contributes to the overall user experience. For this reason, cannabis manufacturers must consider using distinct packaging for different audiences to ensure they cater to their diverse clientele.
Even so, keep in mind that this goes beyond using the psychology of packaging to attract more clients and boost sales. It involves coming up with practical packaging solutions that improve the user experience.
One demographic that has recently been in the limelight within the cannabis community is the senior population. More seniors are beginning to use medical marijuana for various health issues as they learn about its potential benefits. Even so, since the law requires all marijuana packaging to be child-resistant, many senior citizens often have trouble opening cannabis packaging.
Fortunately, creating a suitable marijuana packaging design for seniors is not out of reach. Our guide explores various aspects of cannabis packaging design that can help make these products more senior-friendly.
Understanding the Unique Needs of Seniors
Before diving into specific design elements, it is crucial to recognize the unique needs and challenges seniors face when it comes to cannabis packaging. Some of the common difficulties they encounter include:
Physical Limitations: Seniors may have difficulty opening packaging due to arthritis, reduced dexterity, or muscle weakness.
Visual Impairments: Age-related vision issues, such as presbyopia, can make it challenging to read the small print on labels or discern subtle color differences.
Cognitive Decline: Seniors may struggle to remember dosing instructions or understand complex labeling information.
It’s crucial for cannabis packaging designers to take these factors into account when creating products specifically for seniors.
Clear and Legible Labeling
One of the primary concerns for seniors is the ability to read and understand product labels. Packaging design for cannabis products targeting seniors should prioritize clear, legible labeling with large font sizes, high-contrast color schemes, and straightforward language. Some of the ways you can help seniors comprehend the labeling in weed packaging include:
Streamlining Dosing Instructions: Provide clear, concise dosing instructions that are easy to understand and follow. Consider using visual aids, like icons, to help clarify the information.
Highlighting Essential Information: Emphasize vital details, such as strain type, potency, and expiration dates, so they are quickly identifiable.
Reducing Jargon: Avoid using technical terms or industry jargon that can confuse seniors. Instead, opt for plain language that is easy to comprehend.
Easy-to-Open Packaging
For seniors with arthritis or limited dexterity, opening traditional cannabis packaging can be a real challenge. To address this issue, designers should create packaging that is easy to open without the need for excessive force or fine motor skills. Some possible solutions include child-resistant but senior-friendly closures, such as push-and-turn caps or easy-to-tear perforations on flexible packaging.
Considering Ergonomics and Functionality
In addition to ease of opening, packaging design for seniors should also consider the ergonomics and functionality of the product. For example, tincture bottles could feature a built-in dropper with a large, easy-to-grip handle. Similarly, topical products can incorporate a pump dispenser to make it easier for seniors to apply the product without straining their hands.
Education and Support
Finally, an often-overlooked aspect of cannabis packaging design for seniors is including educational materials and support resources. Seniors may be less familiar with cannabis products and their various uses. So, providing information on proper dosing, potential side effects, and appropriate consumption methods can be incredibly helpful for this demographic. Including contact information for customer support or access to online resources through QR codes in cannabis products can further enhance the user experience and build trust.
Bottom Line
All marijuana businesses must prioritize the needs of all their potential consumers, including seniors. The tips provided in this guide can aid cannabis brands in creating senior-friendly products that ensure safety and satisfaction. Doing this helps build consumer trust and enables marijuana patients to access crucial medical cannabis with ease. It also allows businesses to contribute to a more inclusive weed industry.
