In February, Aging Partners in Lincoln hosted a meaningful and eye-opening breakfast featuring guest speaker Mike Sciandra, Executive Director of the Nebraska Council on Problem Gambling and Education & Outreach Coordinator for Choices Treatment Center.
His presentation, titled “Problem Gambling: A Concern for All Ages,” shed light on a growing issue in our state — one that is quietly affecting individuals and families across Nebraska, including older adults.
As gambling opportunities increase, so does problematic gambling behavior.
And while many assume this issue primarily affects younger adults, the data tells a different story.
Why This Matters for Older Adults
Sciandra highlighted several concerning trends:
- Increased gambling access across Nebraska
- Rising rates of gambling-related harm
- Retirement boredom contributing to risk behaviors
- Seniors becoming targets of gambling-related scams
- Financial strain and debt impacting retirees
Many older adults live on fixed incomes. When gambling turns from entertainment into dependency, the consequences can be devastating — financially and emotionally.
“As gambling becomes more prevalent in Nebraska, now is the time to ensure all Nebraskans are aware of the consequences of problem gambling, resources for problem gambling treatment, and education on how to gamble responsibly,” Sciandra shared.
He emphasized his commitment to using both research and his lived experience to increase awareness and ensure access to support services statewide.
A Story of Recovery and Hope
What makes Mike’s message especially powerful is his transparency.
On December 14, 2020, after more than 25 years of struggling with problem gambling, Mike made a life-changing call to the Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837).
That call connected him with the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program through Choices Treatment Center, where he received:
- Free outpatient treatment
- Individual and group counseling
- Daily check-ins and journaling
- Financial education and budgeting services
After nearly a year bet-free, he reduced treatment and stepped into his current leadership role — now helping others find freedom and stability.
His story reminds us that recovery is possible. Resources are available. And no one has to navigate gambling-related harm alone.
AmanaCare at the Table
Three AmanaCare team members were in attendance for this impactful presentation:
- Alicia Brown, Business Development Specialist for Lincoln & Omaha
- Amber Corbin, Business Development Specialist for Central Nebraska
- Heather Schanou, Marketing Director
After the presentation, the three connected with Mike to explore potential collaboration opportunities. Education like this matters deeply to us because we serve seniors and families every day who may be vulnerable to financial exploitation, isolation, or behavioral health concerns.
We believe prevention and education are just as important as hands-on care.
Mike’s lived experience shapes his message in a way statistics alone cannot. As we often say — those who have walked the road understand the terrain best.
We are exploring ways to bring this education to our clients, families, and referral partners to help raise awareness and offer solutions before financial or emotional harm escalates.
AmanaCare in Lincoln
Our Lincoln office continues to be a hub for community connection and resource-building. Alicia Brown is actively meeting with referral providers, attending educational events, and strengthening partnerships across southeast Nebraska.
If you work with families in Lincoln navigating aging concerns, financial vulnerability, or behavioral health challenges, we would love to be a collaborative resource.
We are actively accepting:
- Medicaid referrals
- VA clients
- Private pay families
And we are always open to connecting with organizations committed to supporting Nebraska seniors.
When Awareness Leads to Action
Problem gambling can affect anyone — retirees, working adults, caregivers, and families. The key is early awareness.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with gambling-related harm, confidential help is available:
Nebraska Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-833-BET-OVER (1-833-238-6837)
Available 24/7.
At AmanaCare, we believe in caring for the whole person — emotionally, physically, financially, and spiritually. Education empowers families. Collaboration strengthens communities. And awareness can prevent crisis.
This is just one example of how Lincoln continues to lead important conversations.
Stay tuned for more updates — and as always, if you need support for yourself or someone you love, we’re here.
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