Seniors and Problem Gambling
what’s the problem??
“ the problem is not gambling…. the problem is problem gambling”
Gambling in Oregon is Growing
Spirit Mt. Casino has replaced Multnomah Falls as our #1 tourist attraction
Oregon Gambling: Summarized
Oregon has more forms of legalized gambling and offers easier access to gambling than almost any other state
- AND - Oregon is a nationally recognized
leader in prevention, harm reduction and treatment for gambling problems
Source: National Ctr for the Study of Gambling, 2006
More Gamblers, More Problem Gamblers
Prevalence of gambling disorders
is a function of the overall level of gambling participation
Gambling can be a double-edged sword for seniors
+ Social benefits - Risk of developing a problem - More difficult to recoup financial losses if retired or on fixed income
Sandy4th grade teacher
WarrenCornell University Economics Degree
Senior Problem Gamblers
• often high functioning and bright•often not the typical user of social services•easier to hide: no obvious physical signs of addiction, nor physical limitations to the process (i.e. don’t OD from too much gambling )
Jane Grandmastole 250K to gamble
Source: National Council on Problem Gambling voices of recovery http://www.ncpgambling.org/
Other considerations for seniors
Older adults less likely to seek help or treatmentHealth professionals rarely assess for problem gamblingEasy access to gambling (busses from senior center to casinos)Mental or physical impairment may cloud judgement
Gambles a lot/Spends more time
gambling
Expects to win and keeps playing to win back losses
Gambling is more like a chore
and/or escape“Chasing” losses
with $ that is needed, borrowed,
or stolen
Gambles once in a while
Hopes to win butexpects to lose
Gambling is for entertainment
Sticks to limits of money to play with
PROBLEM GAMBLINGPROBLEM GAMBLINGSOCIAL GAMBLINGSOCIAL GAMBLING
Oregon Seniors
Current estimate is that over 6,000 Oregonians age 62 and over have a gambling problem
Indicators of problem gambling
Increase in gambling time and places Increase in size of bets Working up special occasions for
gambling Intensity of interest in gambling Boasting wins; evading loses Exaggerated display of money and
other possessions
More Indicators Gambling when there is a crisis
Drop off in other activities/interests
Frequent absences from school, work and home
Excessive phone use
Withdrawal from family
Personality changes (irritability/hostility)
Diversion of funds earmarked for other purposes
The games themselves have an effect on developing gambling problems: faster isn’t better
casino card games = 30 thirty hands per houronline poker = 60-80 hands per hour so more
can be lost faster
Consequences of Problem Gambling
Financial distress or ruin
Depression
Suicide
Stress-related health
problems
Responsible Gambling Guidelines
If you gamble, do it for entertainment only
Treat the money you lose as the cost of your entertainment
Set a dollar limit and stick to it
Set a time limit and stick to it
Expect to lose
Don’t use a credit card to gamble and don’t bet money that should go for more essential needs such as food, rent
Don’t increase your betting to make up for money you lost
Don’t gamble as a way to cope with stress, depression or loneliness
Educate yourself about problem gambling
Getting Help
Free awareness resources503-945-9703
SpeakersVideosHandoutsPosters and brochures
Problem Gambling Help Line:Free and confidential; staffed by professional counselors
Phone: 1 (877) MY LIMIT
Online: 1877mylimit.org (chat, IM, email)
Treatment in Oregon
Continuum of Care Gambling Evaluation and Reduction
Program (GEAR) Corrections Program 27 outpatient treatment centers 3 crisis-respite programs 1 residential treatment program
Oregon Problem Gambling Services
Updated 9/20/06
Symbol Key
Outpatient Clinic
Satellite Office
Residential Treatment
Crisis Respite Program
Conclusions
Problem gambling is a real and growing concern for security professionals and others. Effects about 1 in 37 adults.
We need to implement measures to address problem gambling in the workplace. Policies, increase awareness
Resources are available. Utilize your local resources