Dividing the Close to Avoid Ruining Your Ties
My elderly aunt has a gambling problem. Since casinos are readily accessible in my town,
I sometimes become caught in the crosshairs. My aunt, who resides in a different state, calls frequently, asking to stay at my place. When I’m away, she even asks to use my home as if it were her own.
A year ago, she requested assistance in getting banned from gambling establishments in her state because her behavior had become out of control. As it stands, she can no longer gamble where she lives and can’t afford hotel stays. It seems she sees me as her solution for continued gambling trips.
Between you and me, I don’t want someone
purch growth.
I’ve made it clear that I have a roommate and limited space, and my cautious health approach makes hosting her unacceptable.
My living space just isn’t suitable. It’s crowded enough as it is.
, she doesn’t want to accept this and persists. I want to maintain
friendly contact but don’t know
!
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**Navigating Shifting Friendships**
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* What are some effective strategies for families to approach a loved one struggling with gambling addiction while balancing support with healthy boundaries?
## Gambling Addiction in Seniors: When Family Ties are Tested
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re diving into a complex and often hushed topic: gambling addiction in seniors. This is a growing issue with serious implications for both individuals and their families. Joining us to shed light on this is Dr. Sarah Thompson, a geriatric specialist with a focus on addiction. Welcome, Dr. Thompson.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** We received a moving letter from a viewer whose elderly aunt struggles with a gambling addiction. She lives in a different state and is constantly asking our viewer for lodging to continue gambling since she’s been banned from casinos in her own area. Our viewer feels torn between helping family and enabling this harmful behavior. What advice would you give in this situation?
**Dr. Thompson:** It’s a deeply challenging situation. As studies increasingly show, gambling disorders can affect seniors just like younger demographics. [[1](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6886010/)]While there may be less research specifically focused on this age group, the underlying issues and potential consequences are very real. What your viewer is experiencing is not uncommon.
The first step is for the viewer to understand they are not alone and shouldn’t feel obligated to enable their aunt’s addiction. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial.
**Host:** So, how can someone establish those boundaries without completely severing ties with a beloved family member?
**Dr. Thompson:** It’s a delicate balance. Open and honest communication is key, but it needs to be done with compassion and firmness. The viewer can express their love and concern while clearly stating their limits regarding lodging and financial support. They could suggest alternative solutions, like support groups for gambling addiction, or even offer to help their aunt find a therapist specializing in this issue.
**Host:** That sounds like a proactive approach. Where can people find more information and resources for dealing with this type of situation?
**Dr. Thompson:** There are several organizations dedicated to helping individuals and families affected by gambling addiction. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is a great starting point. They offer a helpline, online resources, and information about local support groups.
**Host:** Dr. Thompson, thank you for sharing your expertise on this important topic. It’s clear that gambling addiction can have a profound impact on individuals and families, and seeking help is essential for both those struggling with the addiction and their loved ones.
**Dr. Thompson:** You’re welcome. Remember, there is support available, and recovery is possible.
