Senior centers, those bastions of life enrichment and social interaction, may be reconsidering one aspect of their operations. That’s a conclusion suggested by an “Issues for Older Adults” program that aired on the Contra Costa County TV channel recently. For years the centers have paved the way with low-cost transportation to casinos where cash enticements and cheap meals lure their members. Besides bingo, some centers bolster their budgets with mini lotteries of their own.
The negative side of this picture was painted by Dr. Patrick Arbore. “For some seniors, gambling is a road to ruin,” he said. Loneliness and boredom are contributing factors. Those who become addicted often show signs of depression, become suicidal, and many turn to alcohol—until they go broke.
“The casinos seem safe and warm, and the employees make you feel important,” Dr. Arbore said. The marketing techniques help explain why older adults represent the largest group of annual visitors to Las Vegas, he added.
Richard Woonacott said that one of the nation’s fastest growing health problems is alcohol and drug abuse among seniors, and gambling is a big contributing factor. He heads the state’s problem gambling and substance abuse program. Based on UCLA studies, nearly one million California seniors have a gambling problem, he said. That works out to one out of five older adults.
“They lie to their families, avoid counseling, become depressed,” Woonacott said. “It often takes years to repair the damage.” A 12-step Gamblers Anonymous recovery program is helping some of those who are addicted.
“Life is a gift; don’t gamble it away,” he concluded.
Comments