Gambling Adults 55+ - Signs And Symptoms

A constellation of these factors may indicate a problem with gambling.

• Less money available for outings, gifts, or meeting needs.
• Unexplained unpaid bills.
• Not answering the phone because collection agencies may be calling.
• Money missing from bank, RRSP's cashed in.
• Valuables disappearing.
• Focused on money, asking to borrow money.
• Withdrawing from family and social events.
• Neglecting household chores or personal care and needs.
• Disappearing for hours at a time.
• Change in eating and sleeping habits
• Decline in physical or emotional health.
• Interest focused on gambling.

How to Approach an Older Person If You Are Concerned:

First define what gambling is as often people do not recognize their gambling as actual gambling. Give examples e.g. slot machines, bingo, tickets etc.

Comment on what you are noticing and express your concern. The person may not have food in the fridge; they may appear to be very stressed and tired. They may be neglecting personal care or missing activities. They may be experiencing physical health problems. Work with what they are able to recognize and go from there.

Offer to help with finances in terms of seeking assistance as to strategies regarding debts. Often problem gamblers recognize a financial problem but do not link it to their gambling. We do have a volunteer financial advisor who may help. His service is free and confidential.

• Do not label the person as a gambling addict or tell them they have a disease.
• Do not tell them what they have to do.
• Do not tell them they have to quit all gambling forever.
• Do not tell them they have to go to group meetings.

Either give us a call at (519) 673-3242 ext. 234 or send us an email if you are concerned about the gambling of an older person you care about.

We can help you with approaches and strategies and perhaps find a way for them to talk with us. Wherever they're at, we can work with that ..

For more information on how to cope, click here.