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

Sandy 4 th grade teacher Warren Cornell 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 Grandma stole 250K to gamble Source: National Council on Problem Gambling voices of recovery

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

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 but expects to lose Gambling is for entertainment Sticks to limits of money to play with PROBLEM GAMBLING SOCIAL 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 hour online poker = 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 resources Speakers Videos Handouts Posters and brochures

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

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

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