There is little doubt that there has been a change in the gambling patterns of people throughout the world.  These pattern changes are directly emanating from the global recession.  Las Vegas casinos report a decline in revenues for the 37^th consecutive month.  Many gamblers have turned their backs on the traditional land-based casinos, and have joined the multitude of individuals who now frequent the online casino parlours.

As money has tightened, particularly over the past eighteen months, it is interesting to note that the online gambling industry is receiving a major impetus from two specific population groups – seniors and shut-ins.  It makes perfect sense to reason that the online casinos represent a tremendous opportunity for people, who are unable to travel, to enjoy their favourite casino games in the comfort of their homes. 

The disabled and ill are discovering that the Internet provides a chance for them to live out their dreams through Internet gambling.  These folks are able to enjoy games of Roulette, Blackjack, Poker and other fine casino games through online gambling.  Without the Internet, many of these individuals would be physically unable to travel to land-based casinos in order to engage in recreational casino play.

The other population group that is making a significant contribution to online casino gambling is the senior population.  Recently, the Toronto Star reported that the number of senior citizens participating in Internet casino action is on the rise.  The Toronto Star reports that from 2000 through 2003, the number of people between the ages of 65-74 engaging in Internet gambling doubled to 28%.  The newspaper estimates that up to 50% of seniors will engage in Internet surfing within the next year, which will surely enlarge the rolls of online gamblers.

Many experts feel that Internet gambling is just the stimulation that seniors and shut-ins need to fight off the demons of depression and isolationism.  The experts argue that Internet gambling will help to keep the brains of shut-ins sharp and active, and there are plans to develop a poker game specifically aimed at this population.  It will feature an interactive component that will allow seniors to chat with each other.    

As seniors become more proficient with the technology of the Internet, they will find more enjoyment and companionship through online casino gambling.