Israeli Women Over 50 Embrace Poker for Strategy and Social Connection

A growing number of Israeli women, particularly those over 50, are discovering and embracing poker, not for high-stakes gambling, but for the intellectual challenge, strategic thinking, and social camaraderie it offers. These women, who often play in private homes or dedicated clubs, meet multiple times a week, viewing their poker sessions as essential social and mental stimulation. Many emphasize that their games are played for minimal stakes, if any, focusing instead on the thrill of the game and the bonds formed.

Niv Sofer, founder of 'Ladies,' a school for strategic thinking games for women, notes that poker was historically a male-dominated domain, but this is changing. Her school, which teaches poker and chess without money play, has trained around 1,800 women, the majority over 50 and many retired. Sofer highlights that poker sharpens cognitive skills like strategic thinking, risk assessment, decision-making under uncertainty, and self-control, which are particularly beneficial for older adults. The social aspect is equally crucial, with many participants forming deep friendships and support networks.

Participants describe poker as a metaphor for life, teaching negotiation, competitiveness, and the importance of calculated risks and knowing when to fold. While some women play in mixed-gender groups, many prefer women-only environments due to past experiences with aggressive play or unwelcome comments. The stigma associated with poker, often linked to excessive gambling and financial ruin, leads many to keep their hobby private from family and friends, though they express hope for a future shift in public perception.

The article also touches upon bridge as another popular game among retired women, emphasizing its cognitive benefits and the strategic teamwork involved. One bridge player shared experiences of antisemitism encountered in online international games, where her Israeli identity led to offensive remarks, underscoring the challenges faced by Israelis in global online platforms.