How the Brain Actually Improves with Age

The article I selected is about how the human brain actually improves in some respects as it ages. Barbara Strauch, author of the new book The Secret Life of the Grown-Up Brain: The Surprising Talents of the Middle-Aged Mind, was interviewed for this article. Her answers reveal some interesting facts about the middle-aged brain.

Brains do experience short-term memory loss as they age, which is due to slower processing speed and degradation of neurotransmitters. However, the middle-aged brain (defined as the years from forty to sixty-five) is still developing. “Inductive reasoning and problem solving – the logical use of your brain and getting to solutions” and “social expertise” actually improve with age. Memory loss problems clearly do not indicate a loss of brain function as it ages. These improvements are caused by increased connections within the brain that develop as it ages.

To keep the brain in good condition, exercise is very important. It aids in brain growth and development. Making the brain work, like talking to those who disagree with you, is also beneficial. Additionally, there is proof that increasing your social atmosphere can also increases cognitive function. Examples of this include activities like volunteering and working with children.

Strauch ended by saying that she was impressed with the hope for the middle-aged brain that was exhibited by scientists. There are many myths about the middle ages being depressing that are unfounded. In fact, a study of men found that their well-being was highest at age sixty-five.

I chose this article because I found it very interesting. I’m a young college student now, but I will inevitably age as time passes. It’s good to know that my brain will stay in good condition, and actually improve, for many more decades.

http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/04/30/the-talents-of-a-middle-aged-brain/?ref=health

--Nicole Wanlass, VTPP 435-502