[pescetom]

barmar, on 2026-October-27, 08:56, said:

Sure, you occasionally get fixed by these players. But most of the time, they do poorly because they just don't understand the game well. They can't make up for this by fielding the misbids enough.

But passive acceptance of their antics transmits a message that is crystal clear to beginners and those on the ethical fence.

Would they understand a discreet explanation of the related Laws?
If so then that is the way to go, if not then just politely enforce those Laws and let them reach their own conclusions about whether this is the right game for them.

[jstbwk]

 pescetom, on 2026-October-21, 15:27, said:

With all due respect for health and ageing problems, rules are rules and bridge has to be played by the rules.

This is a problem that many clubs here experience. The average age rises each year and more and more players have health problems. Most clubs try to provide for this, a seat so they don't have to walk, extra light for some who can't see properly, cards with large symbols etcetera. But there's no simple solution for players with dementia. It takes a lot for anyone to give up a game they've played for years and it's quite often a pasttime that gives them a chance to leave their homes and have social contacts. Who is so cruel to tell them that they are no longer welcome? I wouldn't, given the social function of the club. Sometimes their partners do or a child or carer. But their bridge qualities are mostly so poor, that they harm noone and most members accept the situation, happy that they still have their wits.

[jillybean]

Late back to this thread. I don’t think the players with dementia are the problem, much like ‘protect the new players’ is so often used as a smoke screen.

Most Directors and opponents wouldn’t apply the full force of the Laws to a long-time player who is affected by an age-related condition, or new players.
Surprisingly, we’re somewhat human and compassionate, especially to fellow bridge players.

The problem are the players who have been playing for years with a total disregard for the Laws. Why would they bother with the Laws?

I’m playing a little more club bridge at the moment, and it’s awful.

[pescetom]

I don't think players with dementia or any other disability are the problem either. But I do think that if their partner is taking advantage of the consequences of the disability then we have a problem which should not be ignored.

I directed a club tournament yesterday where our players pleasantly surprised me Maybe it was just by comparison to the horrors I encountered in another club recently. But I think that (to my surprise) our new venue with multiple small rooms each with a few tables is fostering better behaviour rather than worse.

[barmar]

I'm really confused -- what law do you all think bad players (whether due to simple incompetence or dementia) are breaching?