Now, as poker players, we all know we’re an intelligent bunch – or at least on the whole (there’s always going to be some imbeciles around). But other than N. A. Aladjalova’s input into Doyle Brunson’s Super System, there hasn’t been much scientific interest in poker – mathematical yes, but scientific, no.
Well, it seems that a new fad has hit town and scientific research the world over is finally beginning to give poker players the recognition they deserve.
Across an array of medical conditions – from brain damage or Alzheimer’s to amnesia and the menopause, it seems that there is one common activity popping up time and again that is said to benefit the condition by stimulating multiple areas of the brain – you guessed it, poker!
Of course, you don’t need to be a scientist to know that to play poker well you need to be smart. After all, any game of poker requires mental agility, hours of training and piles of concentration, not to mention a good memory and calm demeanour.
But it doesn’t hurt that scientists are getting in on the action and taking a peek into what makes poker players tick…
Think about it… poker and gambling are still reasonably taboo subjects – they’re up against tough global opposition, thanks to a hotchpotch of religious views, political preferences and archaic social values.
Believe me, you can still get a weird look off most people outside of the US if you say you play – the two most commonly held views are that you’re either a gambling addict or you have no morals.
So if scientists want to try and come with good reasons why we should all play poker; we’ll happily let them. Maybe then the game will rise in people’s esteems and we’ll have less nonsense – like bans and blackouts.
And so, what effect does poker have on the brain?
Recent studies from sources including the NHS, University College of London and Alzheimer’s charities have revealed the importance of maintaining brain activity to delay the onset of dementia in old age.
Sure, that’s something we’re all aware of but now poker has been highlighted as one of the most stimulating and effective choices of activity available.
Keeping the brain active is thought to build reserves of healthy brain cells and maintain the connections between them. Studies of over 1 million people have revealed that those who achieve higher levels of education, have more demanding occupations, or participate in mentally stimulating leisure activities are approximately 50% less likely to develop dementia.
The most effective activities are considered to be challenging, stimulating, fun, requiring the use of logic and memory with an element of competition and preferably in a social environment. Great news!
But even greater news is that poker was highlighted by James Parsons, Chief Secretary of the NHS as being particularly effective as it offered all of these components. He stated:
“Very few mentally stimulating activities can tick all of the boxes as they are often completed in solitary conditions. Likewise, most games have limitations. However, the learning opportunities with poker are endless and there’s always a goal to be reached, it’s the equivalent of cross training. The fact that poker is booming can only have a positive impact and we expect to see a decline in dementia as a result.”
The NHS and UCL also pointed out the importance of keeping up to date with modern technology, to ensure the brain is significantly challenged. Again, the opportunities provided by online poker were highlighted by Parsons as “highly commendable, adaptable and effective.”
All of the studies agree that engaging in mentally stimulating activities throughout life guarantees the best results. However, they also agree that it’s never too late too start increasing mental activity; results have shown that introducing mentally stimulating activities for just 30 minutes a day at the age of 50 improves short term memory by a staggering 20% in just four weeks.
So there you go…science says we should play more poker. Result! And no matter how much you go on tilt, you’re still benefitting your brain – I wouldn’t recommend quoting that to someone you’ve just rivered, however.
But there you have it; the licence to wax lyrical about the genius of poker players…
And of it all turns hairy…if a non believer wants to dispute the evidence; you’ll still have the advantage anyway. You’ll be prepared – after all, poker players have an excellent ability to read people, right?
Well hopefully, yes – otherwise you won’t see yourself bringing in much cash. But scientists reckon this particular skill might not stem from the hours of practice you think it would…
