Promoting the Mindsport Bridge

Abby McCutcheon and Samantha Punch (2024)

Below are some relevant quotes from the study. Click here to read the full study.

Studies have associated playing bridge with improved cognitive function, brain fitness, memory, and problem-solving skills (Clarkson-Smith and Hartley 1990;
Gobet and Simon 2000). Empirical studies have suggested that developing skills such as memory, judgement, and critical thinking across the life course could help protect against various forms of dementia in later life (Bespalov et al. 2018; Fabrigoule 2002).
Researchers report that playing bridge can improve confidence, quality of life, well-being, and alleviate stress (Brkljačić et al. 2017a; McDonnell et al. 2017).
Other research has linked bridge to improved communication, empathy, and cooperation (Becchetti et al. 2014; Charness 1987; McDonnell et al. 2017).
Fong et al. (2021) carried out a study of an Australian bridge club. Older club members particularly valued the social support and assistance that other members offered them and the club gave some “a sense of purpose in life”. Fong et al. (2021) concluded that the bridge club acted as a solid third-place community for members (the first- and second-place communities being home and work, respectively).