More good news for boomers! It seems we may be smarter than we were in our 20s.
You already suspected that, didn't you?
For years, we have been told that our brains peak in early adulthood and then slowly go downhill from there. Now, science has discovered that our brains continue to produce neurons for brainpower and that some brain processes actually improve into mid-life.
It's not all good news. Aging brains do slow down and process information more slowly in middle age (40-69 these days). Retrieving information - especially names - can become a challenge. And middle aged brains tend to lose focus sometimes. Ever stepped into another room and then could'nt remember why you went in there?
In exchange for a few inconveniences, middle aged brains are generally happier, more creative, and generally wiser. Barbara Staunch in her book The Secret Life of the Grown-up Brain found that as we get older, real life problem-solving skills improve and we are better able to evaluate complex problems, manage emotions, and process information. We may get slower but we get wiser, more cheerful, and we become more nimble problem solvers. All very useful skills even if we can't remember high school algebra lessons.
Best yet, the brain benefits from exercise, at any age. Learning something new stimulates neuron growth just like exercise grows muscle. As a matter of fact, physical exercise itself is a great brain neuron booster as is good nutrition. Foods high in antioxidants (dark and colorful fruits and vegetables) and fish rich in Omega-3 help keep the brain functioning well. Lastly, once again, there is evidence that stress is damaging and relaxing a necessity to staying healthy.
Now to remember all that...
Learn more about Lake Lure North Carolina and the Blue Ridge athttp://www.DiscoverLakeLure.com
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