Study: Older Adults Vulnerable to Gambling Problems
Anne Osmer Reporting
New research conducted by Wayne State University's Institute of Gerontology verifies that one in five older adults who go to casinos display problem gambling behaviors
Peter Lichtenberg, director of the IOG, recently published the study that looked at a random sample of 1,410 seniors.
The study found that health may be an important factor in determining whether an older adult develops a gambling problem. People with limited mobility are especially vulnerable, as are those who are lonely or isolated. Casinos often give the illusion of social connectiveness, said Lichtenberg, even though games are often played alone.
Problem gambling involves any gambling patterns that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or vocational pursuits, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Examples are betting more than one can afford, having a preoccupation with gambling, or lying to others about gambling.
Help for problem gamblers and their families is available through the Gambling Treatment Program, administered by Neighborhood Service Organization in Detroit. Call 1 (800) 270-7117 for information.
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