Senior citizens are often looking for ways to keep busy or satisfy a feeling of loneliness. Visiting the casinos or gambling with lottery tickets or bingo games can bring them instant gratification and occupy a fair share of their time. There are certain instances where the fun of occasional gambling can turn into an addiction and cause problems both emotionally and financially for the senior.
Incentives
Many casinos and gaming halls offer incentives for seniors. This may be a significant attraction for many seniors with a gambling problem. One incentive involves enticing the senior with free food and drinks. Many travel agencies or casinos offer free tokens or credit for the exact amount of the travel ticket.This encourages play when the senior arrives at the gaming institution. Agencies may also offer a free lunch, dinner or buffet for no additional cost aside of their original ticket. Some casinos offer free drinks and entertainment shows as a way to appeal to seniors. The main goal of the casino or bingo hall is to get business. If some seniors feel they have a free trip, they are more likely to dip into their pocket books and bet additional money---this is where overspending can occur.
Boredom
One reason many seniors have problems with gambling may be that they are bored or lonely. They may also enjoy the camaraderie and excitement of being around the lights and sounds of the casino or gaming area. Because of the variety of slot machines and games available at casinos, there are game themes and game types that draw seniors in. Once a senior finds her favorite machine, she can get caught up in the game and easily lose track of time and money---especially if she is winning.
Convenience
Many travel companies and area senior centers coordinate with casinos to offer large discounts to seniors. They may offer a bus ride or other transportation to and from the casino; this makes it more convenient for seniors, especially those who don't drive. Many charter bus companies will pick up seniors at their retirement home or village, while others have a general location that is within major city limits. The convenience of getting to and from the casino can lead to traveling there frequently for a very low cost (sometimes under $10 round trip, plus spending money and food). Instant lottery tickets are available at most grocery and convenience stores, making them an easy target for seniors. Buying excessive amounts of lottery tickets when not at the casino is a common trait with many senior gamblers.
Fund Availability
Because of the easy availability of funds at most casinos with ATM machines, tellers and cash advances---once seniors run out of money, it is easy for them to gain access. ATM machines are prevalent at most casinos and bingo halls. What causes many seniors to go over budget isn't always their frivolous spending---it is the fees that are assessed at the casino and the senior's bank for taking out money. For cash advances at the cashier desks, fees in upward of $25 can be assessed. Some seniors who may suffer from dementia or other mind-deteriorating illnesses may not fully understand the final consequences of taking out the money.
Easy Targets
There are a couple of reasons why a senior could be an easy target at a casino or bingo hall. The first could be other visitors may prey upon them. It could be someone asking them for change or distracting them while someone else takes their money or their money token slip. Another reason could be the slot machines themselves. Many slot machines state they are only one- or five-cent machines, which instantly attract most seniors, especially those on a budget. The problem is that many of these machines require a minimum line pull amount such as 10 or 25, making each pull around 10 or 25 cents. If the senior unknowingly puts in a five- or 10-dollar bill and hit max bet, his funds will disappear quickly if he doesn't win. Because of the flashy lights and multiple selection of buttons, it may be difficult for him to understand.
