[Gambling in elderly patients]. / Les jeux de hasard et d'argent chez les sujets âgés.

ABSTRACT

Behavioural addictions concern behaviour which generate pleasure (shopping, gambling, sex, etc.). Pathological gambling is the most common behavioural addiction in elderly people. It can be severely harmful causing psychological, financial and family problems and increasing the risk of suicide. Gambling addiction is underestimated in the elderly. Psychological, social and family support is important whatever the age, with treatment aiming to improve the person's quality of life, help them regain control of their gambling or stop altogether.