Age Differences in Overall Functioning, Gambling-Related Symptoms, and Comorbid Conditions Among Gamblers

Abstract

Results: Older adults were less likely to qualify for a DSM-5 disordered gambling diagnosis, had lower physical functioning, less help-seeking behavior, lower prevalence of comorbid psychiatric conditions, and were more likely to play a single game (versus multiple games) within a casino (versus outside of a casino) compared to other age groups. The three age groups also differed in terms of the DSM-5 gambling criteria endorsed. Age also moderated the influence of one indicator of quality of life and gambling severity: lower social functioning was associated with increased gambling severity to a greater extent in younger and middle-aged adults than in older adults.