On January 1, 2016, at age 94, Louise Post Ritter earned a long-sought-after personal goal in competitive card playing. She reached her Ruby Life Master level in bridge. 

They say bridge is the world’s most challenging card game. To this WWII veteran, it’s a fountain of youth.  Mrs. Ritter says “playing bridge is exercise for the mind.”  It’s also a very social activity.  

Research indicates that cognitive exercise and social stimulation can improve memory and perhaps delay the onset of dementia. One study found evidence that playing bridge uses a part of the brain that stimulates the immune system. The study found that after a game of contract bridge, the players showed an increased number of immune cells. 

Whatever the health benefits of bridge may be, we know this: Mrs. Ritter is 98 and going strong.  

If this socially and mentally engaging game is part of her secret to long life, it’s a secret Mrs. Ritter is eager to share. She is a vocal advocate for the game. In her late 80s, she started teaching it regularly at her area senior center. She teaches the game twice a week.  

The motto of the Peoples Health Champions is “excellence through experience.” Mrs. Ritter’s experience has made her a champion at the game of bridge. That she’s championing its benefits for others makes Louise Post Ritter a Peoples Health Champion.  In conjunction with the New Orleans Saints, we are proud to honor her.