Psychometric properties of the Problem Gambling Severity Index Among Older Adults

ABSTRACT The nine-item Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) is a self-report measure of problem gambling severity used in empirical and prevalence studies. This study examined the psychometric properties of the PGSI among older adult samples (60+ years), which have not yet been evaluated in the literature. Age equivalence of measures originally developed for use among general adult samples cannot be assumed; thus, such instruments should be evaluated to ensure appropriate use of such measures. Data were derived from the Leisure, Lifestyle, and Lifecycle Project and Quinte Longitudinal Study. Results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a single-factor structure. Factor invariance between genders was identified. Internal consistency was considered good for the overall sample (α = .86). Concurrent validity between monthly overall gambling frequency and game types (EGMs, bingo, and instant win tickets) were supported for both continuous PGSI total score and categorical PGSI. In sum, the PGSI total score accurately reflects the construct of problem gambling among older adults.