Seniors and Problem Gambling

Generally speaking, research finds that the risk of problem gambling is lower among seniors than young adults. However, it may be that the screening tools used to identify problem gambling may not be sensitive to the types of gambling problems that seniors experience.

Recent research found that the large majority of older adults who are gambling at problematic levels do not consider themselves to have a problem with gambling and lack observable signs associated with problem gambling. Among participants in the problem gambling categories, the most common indicators of problem gambling included gambling more than one intended and feeling guilty about gambling.

Studies find seniors gamble for several different reasons, the most common being for the "pleasure of the activity" and "the opportunity to socialize." Gambling can turn from an innocent past-time into a problem for the individuals and others around them. Sometimes, circumstances in the person's life have changed (such as death of a spouse or change in health). The person relies on the gambling activity as a way of dealing with boredom or escaping loneliness. Seniors who developed problems state they gambled to "escape problems," because they "needed the money," and because it "was a place they could go where they would not be judged." Generally, the theme of "loneliness" among seniors is cited as being a major reason why they gamble.

It is also possible that for a very small percentage of all seniors, problem gambling may be an early sign of damage to the part of the brain that controls judgement.

(in part from an article by Charmaine Spencer, Simon Fraser University department of Gerontology)

Resources for Seniors

The Responsible Gambling Program can provide valuable information and consultation regarding problem gambling issues for seniors. For contact information call the toll-free Help Line at 1-888-795-6111 or write to info@bcresponsiblegambling.ca.

Other Resources

www.afm.mb.ca  - Information on Seniors gambling can be found in the Our Services section of this site.