All too often, ones senior years end up being anything but golden. Pain and illness limit mobility. Children and grandchildren move away. Spouses, friends and loved ones die. Family homes are sold.
Seniors may turn to gambling as a way to socialize. Following the departure of the last adult child or the death of a loved one, gambling provides an escape-- a way to avoid dealing with the unresolved grief. Playing cards, caravaning to casinos or heading to the race track seems to fill some of the emptiness.
With couples, where intimacy may have slipped away during long years of married life, gambling offers a way to " re-connect." it becomes a common denominator for communicating.
But, as with most forms of entertainment, it is possible to get too much of a good thing. When a gambler's fun becomes an obbsession, theres no turning back. He or she has crossed the line.... from entertainment to addiction.
Those limits differ from person to person, according to financial means, but setting them is the crucial step, especially for seniors livng on fixed incomes.
We tend to underestimate the power of gambling addiction; it pulls too many seniors in over their heads. And while compulsive gambling can be treated, it is much easier to prevent any tragic outcomes.
2) Sets high expectations of performance for self and/or others - a perfectionist.
3)Few or no hobbies other then gambling.
4) Uncomfortable with/tries to avoid conflict.
5) Is a risk taker; likes and admires the trait in others, especially in financial ventures.
6) Gets bored easily in all other social situations. No other activity is more pleasurable, exciting or relaxing than gambling.
7) Believes in accumulating money in order to spend it, not as a safeguard for the future.
8) Is a big spender and tipper; carries around large amounts of cash.
9) History of few loans/no credit card debt, followed by a steady, progressive increase in the frequency and amount of both.
10) Recounts "big win" episodes in detail, with relish and a great show of self-congratulation.