Last Words

Expect to lose when you visit a casino. The money you play in a machine or at a table pays for your “entertainment” while you’re in the casino. Many gamblers like to say it’s similar to paying for a day at Disney World.

Casinos are profit-based businesses run by large corporations. The sumptuous surroundings are eventually paid for by losers — you and me.

Be realistic… a few people do win big at casinos and maybe you will too. But it’s far more likely you’ll be included in the majority who leave with less money than they came to the casino with.

Elderly gambling addiction has become more common as casinos have ramped up their marketing to seniors. In addition to the freebies offered once you’re in a casino, many casinos pay tour companies to organize trips for seniors and the tour companies deliver busloads, mostly on weekdays. Some casinos provide shuttle service from adjoining towns and/or retirement communities.

Seniors who gamble away their savings, pensions, and fixed incomes, don’t have the option of getting a job and starting over when they don’t have money to pay their bills. The result can be devastating to them and to their families.

Visit a casino to have fun. Take only as much money as you can afford to lose. Don’t take your checkbook, debit card, or credit card, “just in case.” Don’t borrow gambling money from friends. Don’t loan anyone else money to gamble.

If you don’t think you can stick to a predetermined budget, leave before you gamble the first penny or nickel.

It’s your choice to gamble or not gamble. Choose responsibly.

To understand the potential and pitfalls of elderly gambling addiction, visit CasinoWatch.org and click on “Elderly” in the Topics section.

When you’re gambling, don’t forget these words by Kenny Rogers: “You got to know when to hold ‘em, know when to fold ‘em, Know when to walk away and know when to run.” Lyrics from The Gambler, sung by Kenny Rogers, copyright Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC.

Gambling should be fun. When it isn’t, don’t!

From Casino Gambling Guide for Little Old Ladies. © Copyright Pat Gaudette.