Executive functioning and gambling: performance on the trail making test is associated with gambling problems in older adult gamblers

Neuropsychol Dev Cogn B Aging Neuropsychol Cogn. 2009 Nov;16(6):654-70. doi: 10.1080/13825580902871018. Epub 2009 May 29.

Abstract

Rates of gambling problems in older adults have risen with increased accessibility of gambling venues. One possible contributor to problem gambling among older adults is decreased self-control brought about by diminished executive functioning. Consistent with this possibility, Study 1 revealed that older adults recruited from gambling venues reported greater gambling problems if they also experienced deficits in executive functioning, measured via the Trail Making Test. Study 2 replicated this finding and demonstrated that problem gambling is associated with increased depression among older adults, mediated by increased financial distress. These studies provide support for the hypothesis that older adult gamblers who have executive functioning problems are also likely to have gambling problems.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging*
  • Cognition Disorders* / complications
  • Depression / complications
  • Executive Function*
  • Female
  • Gambling*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Models, Psychological
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Regression Analysis
  • Stress, Psychological / complications
  • Trail Making Test