Does Alzheimer's disease qualify in Michigan?
Yes. The Michigan Medical Marijuana Program (MMMP) lists Agitation of Alzheimer's disease as a qualifying condition. A Michigan-licensed provider still has to evaluate you and agree that cannabis is appropriate.
About Alzheimer's disease
A progressive brain disease that causes memory loss and, often, agitation and sleep problems.
Limited evidence. Small trials have looked at cannabinoids for agitation in dementia with mixed results. There's no evidence cannabis slows the disease.
Symptoms Michigan patients most often hope to ease:
- Agitation, irritability or aggressive outbursts
- Restlessness and pacing, especially in the late afternoon and evening
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep through the night
- Poor appetite and unwanted weight loss
- Anxiety and distress that are hard to calm
Before you start. THC can cause dizziness, unsteadiness and low blood pressure on standing, which raises the risk of falls and hip fractures in older adults. Cannabis can add to confusion, drowsiness and memory problems, so any worsening of thinking should be reported right away.
Read more: medical marijuana for Alzheimer's disease.
How to get certified in Michigan
- See a Michigan-licensed MD or DO, who completes the Physician Certification after evaluating you.
- To apply online (patients without a caregiver), create an account on the MMMP portal within six months of your evaluation.
- If you have or want a caregiver, mail the full paper Application Packet instead.
- Include proof of Michigan residency (driver's license, state ID or voter registration).
- Pay the $40 fee by card or e-check online, or by check or money order made out to State of Michigan - MMMP.
- Wait for your card or a denial letter, which the agency must issue within 20 business days. Online applicants get a temporary card by email.
Michigan requires your first certification visit in person. Renewals can usually be done online.
Costs and timeline
- State fee: $40
- Card lasts: 2 years
- Processing: Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue)
- Patient limit: 2.5 oz of usable marijuana; 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver growing for them
- Home grow: Up to 12 plants if the patient has no caregiver cultivating for them
- Recreational sales: Legal for adults 21+
- First visit online: No — in person first
See the full Michigan cost breakdown and Michigan program overview.
Other qualifying conditions in Michigan
- ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)
- Arthritis
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cachexia & wasting syndrome
- Cancer
- Cerebral palsy
- Chronic pain
- Crohn's & IBD
- Epilepsy & seizures
- Glaucoma
- HIV/AIDS
- Hepatitis C
- Nail-patella syndrome
- Nausea & appetite loss
See every qualifying condition in Michigan
Alzheimer's disease in nearby states
Frequently asked questions
Do I need medical records for Alzheimer's disease?
Helpful records include: a diagnosis letter or recent notes from a neurologist, geriatrician or primary care doctor confirming Alzheimer's disease or dementia; results of memory or cognitive testing and any brain imaging, if you have them; a complete list of current medicines, including memory drugs, sleep aids, antipsychotics and blood thinners. Many patients are still evaluated on their history alone, and your Michigan provider will tell you if more is needed.
How long does certification take in Michigan?
The provider visit takes about 15 minutes. Up to 20 business days from receipt to issue a card or denial (15 days to decide plus 5 to issue).
Can I renew online in Michigan?
In most cases, yes. Cards last two years, and you can renew starting 90 days before expiration. Renewal needs a new physician certification from an evaluation in the last six months and proof of residency. You can renew online if you have no caregiver.
Sources
- CRA - MMMP Patients & Caregivers
- CRA FAQ - What medical conditions are eligible?
- CRA FAQ - How much is the application fee?
- CRA FAQ - When does a patient registry identification card expire?
- CRA FAQ - How long does it take to receive a registry identification card?
- CRA FAQ - Residency requirement
- National Academies — The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids (2017)
This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. Laws change — confirm details with your state agency. State facts last checked October 7, 2026.