It Could Be
Gambling is often associated with addictions, depression, bankruptcy, and even incarceration. But a research study shows that these consequences rarely occur when seniors engage in recreational gambling. In fact, seniors who participated in recreational gambling had a health advantage over those who did not participate.
Why?
Although the study provided no clear answers, the Yale researchers suggested several possible reasons why seniors who participate in recreational gambling tend to be healthier.
- Participating seniors might be healthier and more active to start with.
- Participants might be more socially outgoing.
- Participants might be more cognitively (mentally) active.
There might be other activities that show similar results. But this particular activity reflected the widespread availability of games such as bingo, lotteries, keno, and slot machines. In many areas, senior centers and other senior-oriented programs take seniors by the busload to gambling centers. It becomes a social occasion for many.
A Final Word
This study does not suggest that all older people should start gambling. It only suggests that those who participate seem, in general, to be physically and mentally healthy. There is always a risk that a person on a fixed income could lose more money than he or she can afford to lose, or that a person could become addicted to gambling.
Seniors who keep physically and mentally active tend to live longer, healthier lives. |
