A Yale University study shows that older gamblers are healthier than non-gamblers of the same age. They have lower rates of alcoholism, depression and yes, even bankruptcy.
Diane Scarponi quotes epidemiologist Rani Desai as saying, "There's this whole concept of healthy aging—that folks who continue to remain engaged in activity, especially in the community and in social activities, stay healthier longer, so I think this is a reflection of that. It's not that gambling makes you healthy, it's that gamblers are healthier."
Desai started his study with the theory that health problems would be greater in gamblers over 65, since losses would hit people harder if they’re on fixed incomes. But he discovered the opposite is true. Joe Haley, 71, uses an oxygen tank because he has a rare lung disease, but he still goes to a casino about once a month to play video poker and blackjack. He says, "My opinion is a lot of people are lonely and a lot of people we know who come here will tell you that. They like to play a little and chitchat with the person next to them."
The gambling industry takes care of its older gamblers by offering them freebies and trips, and even provides needle disposals for diabetics in restrooms and heart defibrillators on casino floors.
Diane Scarponi quotes epidemiologist Rani Desai as saying, "There's this whole concept of healthy aging—that folks who continue to remain engaged in activity, especially in the community and in social activities, stay healthier longer, so I think this is a reflection of that. It's not that gambling makes you healthy, it's that gamblers are healthier."
Desai started his study with the theory that health problems would be greater in gamblers over 65, since losses would hit people harder if they’re on fixed incomes. But he discovered the opposite is true. Joe Haley, 71, uses an oxygen tank because he has a rare lung disease, but he still goes to a casino about once a month to play video poker and blackjack. He says, "My opinion is a lot of people are lonely and a lot of people we know who come here will tell you that. They like to play a little and chitchat with the person next to them."
The gambling industry takes care of its older gamblers by offering them freebies and trips, and even provides needle disposals for diabetics in restrooms and heart defibrillators on casino floors.
