Free Oxygen Tank Refills and 50% Discount on Prescription Drugs - Casinos sucking in the elderly

I cam across an interesting article on the internet today from the Omaha World-Herald in the USA. Titled "Addicted to gambling late in life", writer Robynn Tysver presents some interesting aspects of how casinos in that area attract older gamblers as well as some of the devastating effects.
The following paragraphs took me by surprise, but they shouldnt have.

For several years, older Americans have been the fastest-growing segment of gamblers in the nation. Casinos routinely cater to the elderly, providing transportation, big band tunes and, at a Nevada casino, free oxygen tank refills.

Several years ago, under a different owner, Bluffs Run Casino offered a 50 percent prescription drug discount to senior citizens who acquired a club card for frequent players.

If you have ever been to Las Vegas on a week day before noon, you will see many older people dragging their oxygen bottles through the smoke filled gaming rooms. It is sad to see and is one of the reasons I no longer work in the industry.

Some of the reasons why casinos and gaming are so attractive to older people are issues with society not gambling. Why are there not many places that offer the same excitement and service to our older citizens. At the casino, the elderly are treated as privileged customers - they are valued just as you or I would be. Unfortunately this is not the case for many other forms of entertainment or activity.

This service level however contributes to to beliefs developed by older people, who will rationalise their enjoyment:

At Crown Pointe Retirement Center, a vanload of older citizens goes to the casinos about once a month. It is a popular activity that the center's residents request, said Bonna Baber, activity director.

"It's fun," said Iola Hickman, 87, who never spends more than $50. "You sit there and wonder, 'Is it going to pay off or be a zero for me?'

"It's harmless entertainment, she said - a way to spend some time in the afternoon. And, Hickman said, the people at the casino are so friendly.

"When they see me coming with my walker, the man comes over and opens a gate and smiles at me," she said.

We need alternatives for older people, and while the casinos offer this enjoyment to our seniors, they cannot be blamed fully unless there are other options available.

Do you know of any solutions?

GG