News on Problem Gambling - Concerns for the Elderly

July 28, 2009 | News Category: Online Casinos

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Once again, problem gambling, although always of concern in the gambling industry, has reached the news highlights. Many accuse online casinos of causing greater numbers of gambling problems, however, the studies and statistics do not support this accusation.

Research has shown that potential gamblers that are likely to suffer from problem gambling incidents occurs in no more than three percent of gamblers. While this is a low percentage, what WREX-TV state is that studies have shown that although the percentage of problem gamblers is low, within that group, the percentage of problem gamblers over the age of 65 reaches as much as eleven percent.

Eleven percent seems to be a somewhat high number as far as problem gambling experts see it, however, when looking at the results, it is also useful to look at the definition that was used to define problem gambling. The survey uses the premise that someone has a gambling problem if they bet more than is affordable, according to their personal financial situation, or someone who places more than $100 on a single bet. While it makes sense that a problem gambler is one who bets beyond their means, it is somewhat arbitrary to place an upper limit on a single bet.

Although not all agree with the definition used for problem gambling, there is a general consensus that gambling problems do seem to affect older gamblers. Some of the issues that often affect players are life-changing events, such as the more serious illnesses, loss of a loved one, especially a spouse, and also using various medications to treat illnesses that can somewhat impair judgement. These drastic life-changes can add to the risk of these individuals developing gambling problems.

In order to treat gambling problems in the older generation, counselors suggest that hobbies and various activities should be introduced into the person's lifestyle in order to help them to live a full life, as well as helping their families to bond with the problem gambler.

Those who suspect that they know someone with gambling addictions, or the beginnings of gambling problems, or suspect that they, themselves, maybe be developing a problem, should keep an eye out for early warning signs such as exaggerated mood swings which are caused by winning and losing when gambling, an attempt to hide gambling activity, and the withdrawal of money to fund their gambling that they should not be touching.

Some people can be helped with simple counseling, or by following simple advice, while others may need to use professional therapy or counseling in order to be helped to overcome their addiction.