The effect of gambling activities on happiness levels of nursing home residents

J Appl Behav Anal. 2010 Fall;43(3):531-5. doi: 10.1901/jaba.2010.43-531.

Abstract

The current study evaluated the effect of participating in simulated gambling activities on happiness levels of 3 nursing home residents. A 4-component analysis was used to measure objective responses associated with happiness during baseline, varying durations of engagement in simulated gambling activities, and 2 follow-up periods. Results indicated that all residents exhibited a higher percentage of happiness levels while engaged in simulated gambling activities compared with baseline. Follow-up assessment took place 10 min and 30 min following the intervention; no lasting effects were observed.

Keywords: elderly; engagement; gambling; happiness.

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Gambling*
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Happiness*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Nursing Homes*
  • Social Environment