(NAPS)—Seniors are one of thefastest-growing groups of gam-blers. Between 1974 and 1994, thepercentage of seniors who “re -cently gambled” jumped from 20to 50 percent. And a recent studyfound gambling to be the most fre-quently identified social activityamong adults over 65, with casi-nos and bingo surpassing movies,lunch, shopping and golf as pre-ferred social activities.

There are a number of reasonswhy seniors may be vulnerable togambling problems. Senior citi-zens are often catered to by casi-nos, with bus transportation, freeor discounted meals, specialrewards and other prizes thatattract older individuals. Gam-bling may provide a distraction toescape the loss of a spouse or amedical concern. Some may havefinancial problems they are seek-ing to overcome. The attention ofcasino staff may reduce feelingsof loneliness. Cognitive impair-ment may prevent the recog -nition of a gambling problem.Seniors may not understandaddiction and be reluctant toseek help.

Studies show that seniors are atrisk for developing gambling prob-lems. A 2006 New Jersey Studyfound that 23 percent of New Jer-sey residents over 55 had at leastone symptom of a gambling prob-lem. A 2005 Pennsylvania studyfound that 10 percent of those over65 in a primary care facility wereat risk for problem gambling.

Signs of seniors having a gam-bling problem include loss ofinterest and participation in nor-mal activities with friends andfamilies, blocks of time unac-counted for, missing possessionsor assets, and changes in attitudeand personality. Gambling prob-lems may also be evidenced byneglect of personal needs (food,utilities and medical), secrecy andavoidance when discussing timeand money, and depression.

Seniors with a gambling prob-lem and their loved ones need toknow that help is available. TheNational Council on ProblemGambling (NCPG) operates a 24-hour National Problem GamblingHelpline, a link for treatment,recovery groups and other re -sources for problem gamblers andtheir family members. Often, sim-ply a kind and helpful listener canhelp a senior admit to a problemand seek help. To learn more orfind help, call (800) 522-4700 orvisit www.ncpgambling.org.

Seniors May Be At Risk For Gambling Problems

Did You Know?There are a number of rea-

sons why seniors may be vulner-able to gambling problems. Somemay have financial problemsthey are seeking to overcome.For more information, call theNational Problem GamblingHelpline at (800) 522-4700 orvisit www.ncpgambling.org.

A free national helpline is avail-able for seniors who may have agambling problem. /// Seniors MayBe At Risk For Gambling Problems

FOR OLDERAMERICANS

A free national helpline is avail-able for seniors who may have agambling problem.