Problem Gambling Difficulties May Increase with Age

A new study from Australia contradicts much thinking by saying problem gambling may find people more susceptible as they age, rather than in youth.

A study in Australia says compulsive gambling incidents may become more likely with age. Scientists from the University of Queensland are finding that aging can cause decreased self-control in senior citizens, creating potential for gaming problems.

According to data released in the scientific journal "Aging, Neuropsychology, and Cognition," deterioration in the frontal lobes of the brain may result in impulsive behavior in older adults.

“Some older adults might have difficulty engaging in self-control when gambling due to losses in frontal lobe functioning," says Professor William von Hippel of the university's School of Psychology. “These results raise the possibility that increased gambling among older adults might not always be an issue of personal choice.”

Accessibility of gaming may have some impact on problem gambling figures, but mental conditions is likely a far bigger contributor in causing compulsive gambling, said the study.

“In our samples of older adult gamblers, those who had more difficulty with tasks that rely on the frontal lobes were also more likely to have gambling problems," said von Hippel.

The professor suggested measures to guard seniors prone to gambling problems. “For example, most older adults show better frontal lobe functioning earlier in the day, so they might gamble more wisely if they avoid gambling in the afternoon or evening,” he offered.