Seniors and Problem Gambling

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Seniors and Problem Gambling
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whats the problem??
the problem is not gambling. the problem is
problem gambling
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Gambling in Oregon is Growing
Spirit Mt. Casino has replaced Multnomah Falls
as our 1 tourist attraction
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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
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More Gamblers, More Problem Gamblers

• Prevalence of gambling disorders
• is a function of the overall level of gambling
  participation

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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

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• 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. dont OD from too much gambling )

Sandy 4th grade teacher
Jane
Grandma stole 250K to gamble
Warren Cornell University Economics Degree
Source National Council on Problem Gambling
voices of recovery http//www.ncpgambling.org/
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Other considerations for seniors

• Older adults less likely to seek help or
  treatment
• Health professionals rarely assess for problem
  gambling
• Easy access to gambling (busses from senior
  center to casinos)
• Mental or physical impairment may cloud judgement

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PROBLEM GAMBLING
SOCIAL GAMBLING
Gambles a lot/ Spends more time gambling
Gambles once in a while
Expects to win and keeps playing to win back
losses
Hopes to win but expects to lose
Gambling is for entertainment
Gambling is more like a chore and/or escape
Chasing losses with that is needed, borrowed,
or stolen
Sticks to limits of money to play with
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Oregon Seniors

• Current estimate is that over 6,000 Oregonians
  age 62 and over have a gambling problem

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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

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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

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The games themselves have an effect on developing
gambling problems faster isnt better

• casino card games 30 thirty hands per hour
• online poker 60-80 hands per hour so more can
  be lost faster

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Consequences of Problem Gambling
Financial distress or ruin Depression Suicide Stre
ss-related health problems
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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 Dont use a credit card to gamble and dont
bet money that should go for more essential needs
such as food, rent Dont increase your betting to
make up for money you lost Dont gamble as a way
to cope with stress, depression or
loneliness Educate yourself about problem
gambling
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Getting Help
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Free awareness resources503-945-9703

• Speakers
• Videos
• Handouts
• Posters and brochures

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• Problem Gambling Help Line
• Free and confidential staffed by professional
  counselors
• Phone 1 (877) MY LIMIT
• Online 1877mylimit.org (chat, IM, email)

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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

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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