Seniors & Gambling

In retirement, gambling can be a fun, social activity. Although many seniors find the right balance between gambling and other aspects of life, there are some factors that could increase the risk of developing a problem with gambling.

• Increased leisure time in retirement, which could potentially lead people to gamble more than they intended.
• A decline in income brought on by the transition to a fixed retirement income, which can increase the impact of gambling losses.
• Major life changes that could lead you to gamble to escape other problems.

Spot the Signs

Problem gambling behavior isn’t always easy to see.  But there are certain signs to look out for.  Seniors may be developing a problem if they:

• Start to spend more of their leisure time gambling
• Lie about how much they’re gambling
• Neglect other responsibilities and obligations
• Ask to borrow money
• Use gambling as an escape or distraction
• Believe a big win is just around the corner
  

Have a Conversation

The best way to check in on the senior in your life is by opening a dialogue.  Here are some tips to help start the conversation:

• Seniors welcome direct communication.  If you notice that a senior in your life is going to the casino more often, ask them why.
• Try asking them what leisure activities they engage in.  If gambling comes up, it provides an opportunity to talk further.
• Many seniors are not aware of the resources available to them.  Let them know that there’s a confidential, round-the-clock support available for them, should they need it.
• A lot of gamblers misunderstand odds.  Discuss the odds of the games they play.

If you would like to learn more about responsible gaming, consult with a GameSense® Advisor.

If you feel you need help, please call the following 24-hour confidential hotlines:

Nevada Council on Problem Gambling
1.800.522.4700

Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling
1.800.GAMBLER
www.mdgamblinghelp.org

Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling
1.800.426.1234

Michigan Department of Community Health
1.800.270.7117

The Mississippi Council on Problem and Compulsive Gambling
1.888.777.9696

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
1.800.GAMBLER

Ohio for Responsible Gaming
1.800.589.9966

Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
1.877.8HOPENY

If you desire to self-limit from gaming at all US based MGM Resorts International properties, you may request a Self-Limit Access Program form at the Casino Cage of any of our US based casino properties. In addition, in the states of Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, and Ohio individuals requesting to be self-excluded may also fill out a form specific for that state.

Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency
1.410.230.8798

Massachusetts Gaming Commission
1.617.533.9737

Michigan Gaming Control Board
1.888.223.3044

Mississippi Gaming Commission
Jackson 1.800.504.7529
Central District 1.888.465.8312
Northern District 1.800.269.3577
Southern District 1.800.497.8550

New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement
Atlantic City 1.609.441.3846
Trenton 1.609.777.2279

Ohio Lottery Commission
1.800.686.4208

New York State Gaming Commission
1.518.388.3300