Seniors Are the Fastest Growing Group of Gamblers
According to the National Gambling Impact Study Commission, seniors, age 65 and older, are the fastest growing group of gamblers. For seniors, gambling is a source of entertainment; an activity that affords them an opportunity for excitement. What few realize is that they are also the most vulnerable group. The factors that make seniors more vulnerable as a group are:
- Older adults are coping with major life transitions or losses, such as death, the end of a career and/or isolation from family and friends.
- Older adults do not have enough working years left to recoup losses in their retirement savings.
- Many older adults may not understand addiction, making them less likely to identify themselves with a gambling problem.
- Many older adults hide their gambling from others and rarely seek help because of the stigma attached.
- Some older adults may have cognitive impairment that interferes with their ability to make sound decisions.
To learn more, please call the S.C. Gambling Helpline toll-free at 1-877-452-5155.
